great distress

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "great distress" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant level of suffering or emotional pain experienced by someone. Example: "After hearing the news of the disaster, she was in great distress and struggled to cope with her feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"He is in great distress.

The New York Times

It understandably caused great distress".

The Guardian

I approached my wife in great distress.

The New Yorker

We are all in great distress".

The New York Times

I never allow the great distress to pass my lips.

The New Yorker

"He knows that things can often end in great distress.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

To our great distress, there was little we could do.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ferrand acknowledges the "great distress" in the local community.

The Guardian

"They've caused me great distress on my computer, that's for sure," she said.

The Guardian

Instead, watching his torment caused great distress to his captors, the official said.

The New York Times

Witnesses and 911 calls record one of the men in great distress crying out for help.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "great distress", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the intensity and nature of the suffering being described. Choose more specific terms if nuance is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "great distress" in overly formal or technical writing where more precise and descriptive language may be preferred. Opt for alternatives that convey specific emotional or psychological states.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "great distress" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "great" modifies the noun "distress". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. It describes a state of intense emotional suffering or hardship.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "great distress" effectively conveys a significant level of emotional suffering. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is used in various contexts, including news reporting, scientific literature, and encyclopedic entries. While alternatives exist for nuanced expression, "great distress" serves as a strong and universally understood descriptor of hardship and anguish. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing styles. Understanding its function and usage patterns enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable anguish

Implies a substantial level of mental or emotional suffering.

severe anguish

This alternative suggests a more intense and prolonged emotional suffering compared to "great distress".

deep sorrow

Focuses on sadness and grief as the primary emotion, potentially lacking the urgency implied by "great distress".

intense suffering

Highlights the experience of pain and hardship, emphasizing the severity of the distress.

profound grief

Emphasizes the depth of sorrow, often associated with loss and mourning, differing slightly in emotional tone.

extreme torment

Indicates a high degree of mental or physical anguish, possibly more severe than "great distress".

acute misery

Focuses on the feeling of unhappiness and wretchedness, highlighting the immediate impact of the distress.

terrible hardship

Indicates severe difficulty or suffering, often related to external circumstances rather than internal emotions.

major trouble

Suggests significant problems or difficulties, potentially encompassing more than just emotional distress.

serious difficulty

Points to a challenging situation that causes worry and concern.

FAQs

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

You can use "great distress" to describe a state of significant emotional suffering. For example: "The news of the accident caused her "great distress"." or "Witnesses reported seeing the animal in "great distress"".

What are some alternatives to "great distress"?

Alternatives to "great distress" include phrases like "deep sorrow", "intense suffering", or "severe anguish", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "great distress" or "considerable distress"?

Both "great distress" and "considerable distress" are grammatically correct and express a high degree of suffering. "Great distress" may imply a slightly stronger or more immediate sense of urgency.

What's the difference between "great distress" and "unhappiness"?

"Great distress" suggests a deeper and more profound emotional suffering than simple "unhappiness". "Great distress" implies a significant disruption to one's well-being, while "unhappiness" can refer to a more general state of discontent.