extremely distressing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely distressing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, event, or experience that causes a high level of emotional pain or discomfort. Example: "The news of the disaster was extremely distressing for the families affected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

aScores ranged 0 (No distress) to 10 (Extremely distressing).

BMC Psychiatry

As a result soldiers often lack a language with which to express distress (in a context in which they may witness extremely distressing events), which may result in delays in recognising and treating mental health problems.

Social Science & Medicine

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

The Guardian

"Both possibilities were extremely distressing".

The New York Times

"Both possibilities were extremely distressing for the claimant," said counsel.

Independent

"Some of the testimony has been extremely distressing," Kirby said.

The Guardian

The scenes at Aintree yesterday were extremely distressing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Day in, day out officers here wade through an infinite amount of extremely distressing material.

Independent

Children report finding transportation and arrest extremely distressing, including use of force by officers.

The Guardian

The attack, extremely distressing though it was for those involved, barely registers.

Independent

Alison Saunders, London's Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: "This was an extremely distressing and violent case.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "extremely distressing" to convey a strong emotional impact. However, consider your audience and the context to ensure the phrase is appropriate and effective without being overly dramatic.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely distressing" as a catch-all phrase for any negative situation. Instead, consider more specific terms that capture the exact emotion, such as 'heartbreaking', 'terrifying', or 'devastating', to provide a more accurate and impactful description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely distressing" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe something that causes significant emotional pain or discomfort. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase qualifies events, situations, or materials.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extremely distressing" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that causes significant emotional pain or discomfort. As evidenced by Ludwig, it is frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts to convey the intensity of negative experiences. While it is appropriate for formal writing, it's important to use it judiciously and consider more specific terms when possible to capture the precise emotion. Alternatives like "deeply upsetting" or "highly disturbing" can offer more nuanced descriptions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply upsetting

Emphasizes the emotional impact of causing someone to feel very sad or worried.

highly disturbing

Focuses on the unsettling and troubling nature of the situation or event.

intensely painful

Highlights the severity of the emotional or psychological pain experienced.

acutely agonizing

Stresses the sharp and intense suffering or torment involved.

exceptionally troubling

Indicates that the situation is particularly worrying and causes significant concern.

profoundly upsetting

Highlights the depth and significance of the emotional distress caused.

terribly traumatic

Implies that the experience has had a severe and lasting negative impact.

grievously sorrowful

Emphasizes the profound sadness and regret associated with the situation.

severely heartbreaking

Focuses on the intense emotional pain and devastation experienced.

exceedingly discomforting

Highlights the lack of ease and psychological strain that are being experienced.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "extremely distressing" in a sentence?

To use "extremely distressing" effectively, provide context. For example, "Witnessing the accident was "extremely distressing" due to the severity of the injuries." This adds depth and credibility.

What are some alternatives to "extremely distressing"?

You can use alternatives like "deeply upsetting", "highly disturbing", or "intensely painful" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "extremely distressing" in formal writing?

Yes, "extremely distressing" is appropriate in formal writing when used to accurately describe a situation causing significant emotional pain. However, ensure it's not overly dramatic and fits the overall tone of the piece.

What makes "extremely distressing" different from "slightly upsetting"?

"Extremely distressing" indicates a high level of emotional pain and discomfort, whereas "slightly upsetting" suggests a minor emotional impact. The key difference is the intensity of the emotional response.