has been awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has been awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or interaction that has been uncomfortable or tense over a period of time. Example: "The conversation between them has been awkward ever since their disagreement last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The Stoudemire-Anthony-Chandler lineup has been awkward and problematic.

The New York Times - Sports

At times, the widening divide has been awkward, even tense.

The New York Times

Pelfrey's transition to the American League has been awkward.

The New York Times - Sports

The race for mayor has been awkward for the Clinton family.

The New York Times

Mostly, it has been awkward; she believes that people are scared to talk to her.

The New Yorker

The first-base experiment has failed, though, with a transition that has been awkward and inglorious for Piazza.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"It would have been awkward".

The New York Times

That would have been awkward.

The New York Times - Sports

Inevitably, there have been awkward moments.

The New York Times - Sports

That would've been awkward.

The Guardian

Club spokesman: "It would have been awkward".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "has been awkward", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Does the situation primarily involve discomfort, tension, or difficulty? Choose related words that more accurately reflect the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "has been awkward" to describe direct, open conflicts. The phrase implies a subtle, uncomfortable situation, not an outright disagreement or fight. Use stronger terms like "contentious" or "hostile" for more direct conflicts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has been awkward" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing a state or condition that has persisted over time. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it commonly modifies subjects relating to situations, relationships, or interactions, indicating a prolonged state of unease or discomfort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "has been awkward" is a common phrase used to describe situations or interactions that have caused discomfort or tension over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various sources, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, consider the specific nuance you want to convey, and avoid using it to describe direct conflicts. Alternatives such as ""has been uncomfortable"" or ""has been tense"" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has been uncomfortable

Emphasizes the feeling of unease or lack of comfort in a situation.

has been tense

Highlights the presence of strain or pressure in the situation.

has been strained

Suggests that the situation has damaged relationships or created difficulties.

has been uneasy

Focuses on a feeling of anxiety or apprehension.

has been delicate

Indicates that the situation requires careful handling to avoid problems.

has been thorny

Implies that the situation is complex and full of difficulties.

has been challenging

Focuses on the difficulty and effort required to deal with the situation.

has been problematic

Highlights the fact that the situation is causing problems or difficulties.

has been touchy

Suggests that the situation is sensitive and easily provokes strong reactions.

has been sticky

Implies that the situation is difficult to resolve or escape.

FAQs

How can I use "has been awkward" in a sentence?

Use "has been awkward" to describe a situation or interaction that has been uncomfortable or tense over time. For example, "The silence between them "has been awkward" since their argument".

What are some alternatives to "has been awkward"?

Alternatives include "has been uncomfortable", "has been tense", or "has been strained", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "had been awkward" instead of "has been awkward"?

Yes, "had been awkward" is grammatically correct. Use "had been awkward" to describe a situation that was uncomfortable or tense in the past, before another point in the past. "Has been awkward" refers to a situation that started in the past and continues to the present.

What is the difference between "has been awkward" and "is awkward"?

"Has been awkward" describes a state that started in the past and continues to the present. "Is awkward" describes a state that is currently true. For example, "The meeting "has been awkward" since the announcement" versus "This situation "is awkward"".