emotionally distraught

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emotionally distraught" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is experiencing intense emotional distress or turmoil. Example: "After hearing the news of her friend's accident, she was left feeling emotionally distraught and unable to focus on anything else."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"He's emotionally distraught," Camby's business manager, Rick Kaplan, said the next day.

The New York Times

"OK, I was emotionally distraught, but I was doing things that were really dumb.

The Guardian - Books

My wife somehow knows how to all at once be emotionally distraught and serenely levelheaded.

The New York Times

The incident apparently occurred at a time during which Johnson was emotionally distraught, and the conviction was later vacated.

Cornell University

Her son was not physically hurt in the shooting, she said, but is emotionally distraught.

The Washington Post

Chief Zisa suggested that Ms. Booker was emotionally distraught after the birth.

The New York Times

Phillips said Escobar was in a "baseball slump, not emotionally distraught" by his demotion.

The New York Times - Sports

"He's emotionally distraught and his first commitment is obviously to his family," Kaplan said.

The New York Times - Sports

When Reid was acquitted, the young woman was crushed, emotionally distraught and frightened of reprisals.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There were a lot of emotionally distraught people," said Breck Smith, a Coast Guard ensign.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Eventually, Cleaves orders the two Doctors separated; the Ganger Doctor and another crewman go looking for Rory, who had gone off alone to find the emotionally-distraught Jennifer, another of Cleaves' crew.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "emotionally distraught" to describe a state of significant emotional distress, often resulting from a specific event or situation. Ensure the context clearly indicates the cause of the emotional state for maximum impact.

Common error

While "emotionally distraught" is a valid descriptor, overuse can diminish its impact. Consider using alternative phrases like "deeply distressed" or "overwhelmed with emotion" to maintain variety and precision in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emotionally distraught" functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to describe someone experiencing significant emotional distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is acceptable and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

10%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "emotionally distraught" is a frequently used and grammatically correct phrase that effectively describes someone experiencing significant emotional distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in various contexts. Its prevalence in news media, as well as academic and encyclopedia sources, indicates its broad applicability. When aiming for greater precision or formality, alternatives like "deeply distressed" or "gravely concerned" may be considered. However, "emotionally distraught" remains a potent and readily understood descriptor of intense emotional suffering.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply distressed

Emphasizes the depth of the distress experienced.

extremely upset

Focuses on the high level of emotional upset.

overwhelmed with emotion

Highlights the feeling of being overpowered by emotions.

inconsolable

Suggests an inability to be comforted or consoled.

grievously afflicted

Indicates suffering from a severe emotional burden.

heartbroken

Specifically describes the pain of emotional loss or disappointment.

devastated

Conveys a feeling of complete destruction or ruin emotionally.

shattered

Implies a breaking or fragmentation of one's emotional state.

tormented

Suggests ongoing mental or emotional suffering.

wracked with grief

Highlights the intense physical and emotional effects of grief.

FAQs

How can I use "emotionally distraught" in a sentence?

You can use "emotionally distraught" to describe someone experiencing extreme emotional distress. For example, "After the accident, the victim's family was understandably emotionally distraught".

What's a more formal way to say "emotionally distraught"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "deeply distressed" or "gravely concerned". These alternatives convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What are some synonyms for "emotionally distraught"?

Some synonyms for "emotionally distraught" include "extremely upset", "overwhelmed with emotion", and "heartbroken". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "emotionally distraught" in professional writing?

Yes, "emotionally distraught" is appropriate in professional writing when describing a significant emotional impact. However, be mindful of the context and consider whether a more formal alternative like "deeply affected" might be more suitable.