extremely upsetting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely upsetting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or event that causes a high level of distress or discomfort. Example: "The news of the accident was extremely upsetting to everyone in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Yes, the weight loss is extreme, but watching contestants wave their excess skin for the camera is extremely upsetting.

Huffington Post

The experience was extremely upsetting.

The Guardian

These killings are extremely upsetting.

The Guardian

The footage is extremely upsetting.

The Guardian - Arts

Mayor Parker has also viewed the videotape and described it has extremely upsetting.

The New York Times

Responding to the claims, the MP for Rochdale said: "These claims are malicious, untrue and extremely upsetting.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Irene Tomiczek remembers that her daughter sounded "extremely upset.

The Washington Post

I was extremely upset.

The New York Times - Sports

"Some were extremely upset.

The New York Times - Sports

Phil Collins is extremely upset!

The Guardian - Music

And they become extremely upset.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extremely upsetting", consider the audience and context. Ensure the intensity of the phrase aligns with the situation you're describing to avoid exaggeration or understatement.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely upsetting" in everyday situations that cause mild annoyance. Reserve it for genuinely distressing or disturbing events to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely upsetting" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It expresses the degree to which something causes distress or emotional discomfort. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in describing news, events, or situations that evoke negative feelings.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

8%

Science & Research

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extremely upsetting" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that causes significant distress or emotional discomfort. According to Ludwig, it's primarily used in news and media contexts, but also appears in academic and scientific writing. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations that warrant a strong emotional descriptor. Consider alternatives like "deeply distressing" or "highly disturbing" for nuanced expression. Understanding its appropriate register and potential for overuse will ensure impactful and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply distressing

Emphasizes the profound level of distress caused.

highly disturbing

Focuses on the disturbing nature of the event or information.

profoundly unsettling

Highlights the unsettling and disorienting effect.

acutely distressing

Stresses the sharpness and intensity of the distress.

terribly disheartening

Emphasizes the loss of hope and morale.

very troubling

Highlights the concern and worry caused by the situation.

exceptionally aggravating

Focuses on the frustration and irritation caused.

intensely vexing

Emphasizes the annoyance and irritation produced.

remarkably perturbing

Highlights the disturbing and unsettling effect.

unusually disquieting

Focuses on the anxiety and unease created.

FAQs

How can I use "extremely upsetting" in a sentence?

You can use "extremely upsetting" to describe something that causes significant distress or discomfort. For example, "The news of the layoffs was "extremely upsetting" to the employees."

What are some alternatives to "extremely upsetting"?

Alternatives include "deeply distressing", "highly disturbing", or "profoundly unsettling", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "extremely upsetting" a formal or informal phrase?

While "extremely upsetting" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, it's more appropriate for neutral to formal situations. For very casual settings, you might choose a less intense phrase.

What's the difference between "extremely upsetting" and "slightly upsetting"?

"Extremely upsetting" indicates a high level of distress, while "slightly upsetting" suggests a minor level of discomfort. The choice depends on the intensity of the emotional impact you want to convey.