feel embattled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feel embattled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a sense of being in conflict or under pressure, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "After the recent criticism from the media, the politician began to feel embattled and struggled to maintain public support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The authorities began to feel embattled.

The Guardian

They feel embattled at the moment.

The Guardian

I thought, given the needful of this world, that such a restriction was unfortunate, but the fact was that we were beginning to feel embattled.

The New Yorker

Reform Jews, for their part, feel embattled by Orthodox leaders, who say that they are Jewish only if born to a Jewish mother or converted by an Orthodox rabbi.

The New York Times

If many law enforcement officers feel embattled it's likely because the grand jury's decision in the Garner case has been almost universally condemned, on the right and the left.

BBC

Voters working in healthcare or education two of the big and, relatively, newer employers in southeastern Pennsylvania-- don't have the same economic woes" that have led manufacturing workers to "feel embattled and left behind," she said.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Despite that surprising show of support, most of the speakers felt embattled.

The New Yorker

But even with the victory in Washington -- one that many thought would never happen -- Mr. Berman still feels embattled.

The New York Times

"The community feels embattled and targeted," said Matt Hirschy, director of advancement for Equality NC, the state's largest and oldest LGBT advocacy group.

The Guardian

She said Ms. Swift "had the opportunity to move that discussion forward, and she didn't, because she felt embattled, besieged, defensive".

The New York Times

The Assembly member, who has spoken to Mr. Lopez in the last week, said one telltale sign that Mr. Lopez felt embattled was that "he hasn't called around to members".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feel embattled" when you want to convey a sense of being under sustained pressure or facing significant challenges from multiple sources. This phrase is suitable for describing both personal and organizational situations.

Common error

Avoid using "feel embattled" in everyday situations where the pressure or challenge is minor. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Opt for simpler alternatives when describing less serious difficulties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feel embattled" functions as a verb phrase, where "feel" acts as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "embattled". This construction describes the subject's state or condition. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "feel embattled" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that describes a state of being under pressure or facing significant challenges. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it can also be appropriate in professional or academic settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the context justifies the strength of the expression, and consider alternatives like "feel under attack" or "feel besieged" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel under siege

Focuses on the sense of being surrounded and attacked, similar to a military siege.

feel besieged

Similar to 'under siege', emphasizing a feeling of being surrounded by enemies or difficulties.

feel under attack

Directly conveys the sensation of being criticized or opposed.

feel targeted

Conveys a sense of being specifically chosen for negative attention.

feel threatened

Highlights the perception of danger or harm.

feel beleaguered

Implies being persistently harassed or burdened.

feel cornered

Suggests a lack of options or escape from a difficult situation.

feel pressured

Highlights the experience of being subjected to demands or expectations.

feel defenseless

Emphasizes a lack of protection or ability to resist.

feel vulnerable

Highlights a susceptibility to harm or criticism.

FAQs

How can I use "feel embattled" in a sentence?

You can use "feel embattled" to describe a person or group that perceives themselves as being under attack or facing strong opposition. For example: "The company began to "feel embattled" after the negative press coverage".

What's the difference between "feel embattled" and "feel besieged"?

"Feel embattled" implies facing challenges from multiple directions, while "feel besieged" suggests being surrounded and under intense pressure, similar to a military siege. The latter often conveys a greater sense of isolation and imminent threat.

What are some alternative ways to say "feel embattled"?

You can use alternatives like "feel under attack", "feel threatened", or "feel beleaguered" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "feel embattled" in formal writing?

Yes, "feel embattled" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in news, academic, or business contexts, where it can effectively convey a sense of pressure and opposition. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong expression.