emotionally devastated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emotionally devastated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of deep emotional distress or sorrow, often due to a significant loss or traumatic event. Example: "After the sudden passing of her beloved pet, she felt emotionally devastated and struggled to cope with the grief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"The plaintiff has been emotionally devastated," he said.

The New York Times

All four made it out, emotionally devastated but physically unharmed.

The New York Times

I was emotionally devastated, I was shattered, I spent a lot of time crying".

The New York Times

But in a withering rejoinder, Justice Berkman asked rhetorically: "An emotionally devastated and vulnerable man?

The New York Times

I returned from Palestine psychologically and emotionally devastated by what I had seen.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Aretakis said the frequency and perversity of the sexual abuse had left the victim emotionally devastated.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

(Jove, $6.99). A young divorced woman, emotionally and financially devastated, sets out to rebuild her life.

The New York Times - Books

It's an explicit commitment to the emotionally and economically devastated region.

MIT Technology Review

Born at a moment when the city was emotionally and financially devastated, Rockefeller Center became not only an engine of New York's recovery but also the symbol of its triumph.

The New York Times - Magazine

"And so when we left, I was absolutely devastated, just emotionally so sad.

Huffington Post

"Completely devastated".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "emotionally devastated" to convey a strong sense of sorrow, loss, or extreme disappointment. Ensure that the context clearly indicates the cause of this emotional state.

Common error

Avoid using "emotionally devastated" to describe minor setbacks or disappointments. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving significant trauma or loss, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emotionally devastated" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun to describe their emotional state. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signifies a state of deep distress or sorrow.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "emotionally devastated" effectively describes a state of profound emotional distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. While alternatives like "utterly heartbroken" or "deeply distressed" exist, "emotionally devastated" specifically conveys the severity and depth of emotional suffering. Used judiciously, especially in situations involving significant trauma or loss, it adds a powerful dimension to writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utterly heartbroken

Emphasizes extreme sadness and loss, focusing on the feeling of a broken heart.

deeply distressed

Highlights the profound state of suffering and anguish experienced.

completely shattered

Focuses on the feeling of being broken into pieces emotionally.

totally crushed

Suggests an overwhelming sense of defeat and emotional pain.

spiritually wounded

Implies a deeper, more profound injury to one's inner self.

grievously afflicted

Conveys a formal tone, indicating severe suffering and hardship.

emotionally wrecked

Emphasizes the ruinous impact on one's emotional state.

inconsolably sad

Highlights the inability to be comforted or consoled due to immense sorrow.

profoundly affected

Indicates a deep and significant emotional impact.

emotionally scarred

Highlights the lasting emotional damage resulting from a traumatic event.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "emotionally devastated" in a sentence?

To use "emotionally devastated" effectively, ensure the context involves a significant emotional blow. For instance, "After losing her home in the fire, she was "emotionally devastated"."

What are some alternatives to "emotionally devastated" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "utterly heartbroken", "deeply distressed", or "completely shattered".

What is the difference between "emotionally devastated" and "sad"?

"Emotionally devastated" implies a much stronger and more overwhelming sense of sorrow and loss compared to simply being "sad". It suggests a state of profound emotional ruin.

Is it appropriate to use "emotionally devastated" in formal writing?

Yes, "emotionally devastated" can be appropriate in formal writing when describing situations involving significant emotional trauma or loss, as it accurately conveys the depth of the emotional impact. However, consider the tone and audience when choosing the most suitable phrasing.