extreme distress

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extreme distress" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of intense emotional or mental suffering. Example: "After hearing the news, she was in extreme distress and needed support from her friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Taylor said: "Witnessing the extreme distress of that man being violently restrained against his will and being detained myself was extremely distressing.

The Guardian

Just seeing him triggered extreme distress and anger.

The Guardian

A moment of extreme distress for all to see?

The New York Times - Sports

She was in extreme distress, convincing to several Sofitel employees.

The New York Times

"No, not specifically, but they are used to dealing with people in extreme distress".

The Guardian

That game, as investors are learning to their extreme distress, is definitely over.

The New York Times

Yet even the official news media offer regular examples of their extreme distress.

The New York Times

They have, they do, and they will, especially in times of extreme distress like these.

The New Yorker

It's a signal that young people are experiencing extreme distress and need help.

Independent

Some turn to alcohol and drugs to try to cope with the extreme distress.

The New York Times - Health

He seemed to be in extreme distress but was otherwise well fed and healthy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add impact, follow "extreme distress" with specific examples of the person's behavior or circumstances that demonstrate the intensity of their distress.

Common error

Avoid using "extreme distress" too frequently in your writing; it can lose its impact. Use it judiciously to highlight moments of exceptional suffering, and vary your language to describe more moderate levels of distress.

Linguistic Context

Extreme distress functions as a noun phrase, where "extreme" modifies the noun "distress". It describes a state of significant emotional or mental suffering. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

44%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extreme distress" is a grammatically correct and frequently used way to describe a state of intense emotional or mental suffering. Ludwig AI affirms its validity. Analysis reveals its prevalence in "News & Media" and scientific contexts, suggesting a formal tone suited for professional and academic environments. When using the phrase, consider alternatives like "intense anguish" or "severe suffering" for subtle differences in meaning. Remember to use the phrase judiciously to maintain its impact, and be specific about the behaviors or events causing the distress to enhance the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intense anguish

Focuses more on the agonizing nature of the suffering.

severe suffering

Highlights the intensity and gravity of the suffering.

profound sorrow

Emphasizes the depth and sadness of the emotional state.

acute misery

Stresses the sharpness and severity of the unhappiness.

deep despair

Focuses on the loss of hope and overwhelming negativity.

terrible anguish

Highlights the intensity of the mental or physical suffering.

dire straits

Refers to a situation of extreme difficulty or hardship.

unbearable pain

Emphasizes the physical or emotional pain being too difficult to endure.

utter devastation

Conveys a sense of complete destruction and emotional ruin.

agonizing torment

Highlights a state of prolonged and intense suffering.

FAQs

How can I use "extreme distress" in a sentence?

You can use "extreme distress" to describe a state of intense emotional or mental suffering. For example: "Witnessing the event caused her "extreme distress"."

What phrases are similar to "extreme distress"?

Similar phrases include "intense anguish", "severe suffering", and "profound sorrow". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "severe distress" and "extreme distress"?

"Extreme distress" suggests a higher level of intensity and suffering than "severe distress". Use "extreme" when you want to emphasize the most intense levels of emotional or mental pain.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "extreme distress"?

Use "extreme distress" when the situation or experience being described is causing a person or group of people significant emotional or mental anguish that goes beyond ordinary levels of upset or worry. Consider if "intense anguish" is more appropriate.