gently informed that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gently informed that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when conveying information in a polite or soft manner, often in formal or professional contexts. Example: "She was gently informed that her application had been unsuccessful, but encouraged to apply again in the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

One resident showed up in the evening with her American passport, only to be gently informed that the deadline for registration had passed.

The New York Times

When our six-year-old was gently informed that he was too old to suck his comforter's paws at night, the boy unhesitatingly complied.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

@SPObrIggs.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The FSA was informed that same day.

BBC

He must have gestured or motioned in a way obvious to our companions, who gently informed us that Hirokawa-san never sells his work.

The New York Times - Travel

His guest, David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker, gently informed him that it was actually Bill Russell, the legendary former center for the Boston Celtics.

The New York Times

The interviewer then gently informed him that Friedman — who would have been 101 years old if he were still alive — is, in fact, dead.

The New York Times

After a random (and fruitless) search, we consulted members of the museum staff, who were nice enough not to roll their eyes and gently informed us that the Met had no Michelangelo sculptures.

The New York Times - Travel

LB: Yes, and they very gently informed me that until it was drained and reconfigured twenty years after our story takes place, Leverett Pond had been a swamp.

Huffington Post

Nobody reads that stuff anymore, my Russian hosts gently informed me, as they hustled me into the smart shops, fancy restaurants and gleamingly refurbished landmarks of modern Moscow.

The New York Times - Travel

"She has Down syndrome," the pediatrician gently informed me.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gently informed that" when you want to convey information in a polite and non-confrontational way, especially when the information might be sensitive or unwelcome.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on passive constructions like "gently informed that", as it can sometimes sound indirect or evasive. Consider active alternatives when directness is preferred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gently informed that" primarily functions as a reporting verb construction used to introduce a piece of information. It highlights the manner in which the information was conveyed. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gently informed that" serves as a polite and tactful way to introduce information, particularly when the news might be sensitive or unwelcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use. It commonly appears in news media, indicating a neutral to professional register. For situations requiring even greater sensitivity, alternatives like "politely notified that" or "tactfully advised that" can be considered. When using this phrase, ensure that it aligns with the overall tone and context, avoiding overuse of passive voice to maintain clarity and directness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

politely notified that

Replaces 'gently informed' with 'politely notified', emphasizing the courteous aspect of the notification.

tactfully advised that

Substitutes 'gently informed' with 'tactfully advised', highlighting the careful and considerate nature of the advice.

kindly let know that

Replaces 'gently informed' with 'kindly let know', focusing on the benevolent intention of the communication.

softly told that

Uses 'softly told' instead of 'gently informed', emphasizing the mildness and subtlety of the communication.

delicately conveyed that

Replaces 'gently informed' with 'delicately conveyed', suggesting a sensitive handling of the information.

discreetly mentioned that

Emphasizes the confidential and subtle nature of the information being shared.

circumspectly apprised that

Highlights the caution and carefulness taken when sharing the information.

diplomatically communicated that

Focuses on the skill and tact used in conveying the message.

with sensitivity, indicated that

Adds a phrase emphasizing the empathetic handling of the information.

in a considerate manner, stated that

Highlights the thoughtfulness and regard shown during the communication.

FAQs

How can I use "gently informed that" in a sentence?

Use "gently informed that" to introduce information you are conveying in a polite or tactful manner. For instance, "The patient was gently informed that the test results were inconclusive".

What phrases are similar to "gently informed that"?

You can use alternatives like "politely notified that", "tactfully advised that", or "kindly let know that" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "gently informed that"?

It's appropriate when you need to deliver potentially upsetting or sensitive information with care and consideration. This is often used in professional or formal settings.

Is "gently informed that" formal?

Yes, "gently informed that" leans towards a formal register. In more casual contexts, you might prefer phrases like "softly told that" or similar informal alternatives.