emotionally draining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emotionally draining" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation that requires a lot of emotional effort and energy. For example, "Attending my grandmother's funeral was emotionally draining, but I'm glad I was able to honor her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's very emotionally draining.

The Economist

"Emotionally draining and tough.

The New York Times

They were just emotionally draining".

The New York Times

"It's draining, it's emotionally draining".

The Guardian

It can be emotionally draining.

The New York Times

He writes really emotionally draining mysteries.

The New Yorker

It is emotionally draining and mentally crushing.

The New York Times

This is emotionally draining but very rewarding.

The Guardian

It was both physically and emotionally draining.

The Guardian - Travel

It was an emotionally draining task".

The New York Times

It's emotionally draining to be honest.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation or task, use "emotionally draining" to convey the significant emotional effort and energy it requires. For example, "Dealing with customer complaints can be emotionally draining."

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid using "emotionally draining" too casually in informal conversations. Consider lighter alternatives like "tiring" or "stressful" if the situation isn't genuinely emotionally taxing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emotionally draining" functions as an adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to describe something that depletes emotional energy. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "emotionally draining" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe experiences that deplete one's emotional energy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's important to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse in overly casual settings. Consider alternatives like "emotionally taxing" or "heart-wrenching" for nuanced expression. When crafting your message pay close attention to context, as this expression is appropriate for formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emotionally taxing

This alternative emphasizes the burden and strain on one's emotional resources.

emotionally exhausting

Similar to "emotionally draining", this highlights the depletion of emotional energy.

emotionally wearing

Suggests a gradual erosion of emotional resilience over time.

emotionally fatiguing

Indicates a state of weariness and reduced emotional capacity.

emotionally sapping

Emphasizes the gradual depletion of emotional strength.

heart-wrenching

Focuses on the painful and distressing nature of the experience.

emotionally upsetting

Focuses on the disturbing and unsettling nature of the experience.

emotionally trying

Highlights the testing and difficult aspect of the experience.

soul-crushing

Implies a severe emotional impact that damages one's spirit.

emotionally challenging

Highlights the difficulty and effort required to cope with the situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "emotionally draining" to describe tasks, situations, or relationships that deplete your emotional energy. For example: "The court case was incredibly "emotionally draining"".

What's a less intense alternative to "emotionally draining"?

If you want to express a similar sentiment with less intensity, consider using words like "tiring", "stressful", or "demanding".

Is it okay to use "emotionally draining" in formal writing?

Yes, "emotionally draining" is appropriate for formal writing when accurately describing a situation that requires significant emotional effort. It's commonly found in news, academic papers and business reports.

Which is correct, "emotionally draining" or "emotional draining"?

"Emotionally draining" is the correct form. "Emotional" is an adjective, and the adverb "emotionally" correctly modifies the adjective "draining" to specify the type of draining.