harsh statement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harsh statement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe a statement that is very direct, blunt, and perhaps even insensitive. For example, "The teacher's statement that we had wasted her time was a harsh statement that upset many students in the classroom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

There actually had been a reason for my harsh statement.

The New York Times

The N.B.A. issued a fine and a harsh statement.

The New York Times - Sports

"You aren't meant to issue such a harsh statement by surprise, without prior consultation".

The New York Times

His harsh statement is the latest in a recent series from North Korea.

The New York Times

That's a pretty harsh statement for a guy who pitched here for 10 years".

The New York Times - Sports

A harsh statement, perhaps, but one with which Judy Jennings-Moritz, a Northern California real estate broker, would not disagree.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Since his 1998 election they have felt antagonized by his harsh statements and leftist policies.

The New York Times

Mr. Singh avoided harsh statements about Pakistan today but did lace his comments with skepticism.

The New York Times

There are a few signs that party leaders are becoming concerned about the effect of their harsh statements.

The New York Times

All Trump supporters, the three friends weren't bothered by the Republican nominee's sometimes harsh statements about women.

The Guardian

I went to Pittsburgh: Sarkozy, Gordon Brown and Obama had made harsh statements about Iran.I went and asked all of them: Have you talked to Ahmadinejad?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "harsh statement" when you want to emphasize the severity or critical nature of a declaration. It is suitable for formal contexts where a strong message needs to be conveyed.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh statement" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for milder alternatives like "strong words" or "critical comment" to maintain a more approachable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh statement" functions as a noun phrase, where 'harsh' modifies 'statement'. It often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the nature of a particular declaration. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh statement" is a commonly used phrase that describes a critical, severe, or potentially offensive declaration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts, particularly news and media, and formal business communication. While it effectively conveys the severity of a message, avoid overusing it in informal settings to maintain a more approachable tone. Alternatives like "strongly worded statement" or "critical remark" can be used to modulate the impact. The phrase's frequent use in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its acceptance and utility in professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Strongly worded statement

Focuses on the intensity of the words used, emphasizing a firm and forceful expression.

Severe declaration

Highlights the gravity and seriousness of the statement, indicating a critical pronouncement.

Critical remark

Emphasizes the judgmental nature of the statement, pointing out flaws or shortcomings.

Cutting comment

Focuses on the sharp and potentially hurtful nature of the statement.

Scathing assessment

Highlights a thoroughly negative evaluation or judgment.

Damning indictment

Indicates a statement that serves as a strong accusation, often with legal implications.

Forceful assertion

Emphasizes the confidence and conviction behind the statement.

Blunt pronouncement

Highlights the direct and straightforward nature of the statement, without softening the impact.

Stern warning

Focuses on the cautionary and authoritative nature of the statement, often implying consequences.

Unflattering observation

Emphasizes the negative or unfavorable aspect of the statement.

FAQs

How can I use "harsh statement" in a sentence?

You can use "harsh statement" to describe a critical or severe remark. For example: "The manager issued a "harsh statement" regarding the team's poor performance."

What are some alternatives to "harsh statement"?

Alternatives include "strongly worded statement", "severe declaration", or "critical remark", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "harsh statement" or "harsh comments"?

While both are acceptable, "harsh statement" refers to a single, specific declaration, while "harsh comments" implies multiple remarks. The choice depends on whether you are referring to one distinct statement or a series of critical observations.

What makes a statement "harsh"?

A statement is considered "harsh" when it is direct, critical, and potentially insensitive or hurtful. It often involves strong language and a lack of softening or tact.