how encouraging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "how encouraging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a positive reaction to something that inspires hope or confidence. Example: "Hearing about her progress in therapy was truly how encouraging for everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

How encouraging to know that there is a structure and young men are being nurtured and encouraged.

The New York Times - Arts

I can see how encouraging it must be to have a famous band like that 100% united behind you.

The Guardian

And how encouraging to those of us who love short stories that this master of the realistic, "Chekhovian" short story is so honored.

The New Yorker

As a jobbing actor, I cannot adequately express how encouraging it is to know that a big break could come at any age.

The Guardian - Opinion

When, at 72, she won an Academy Award, she said, "I can't tell you how encouraging a thing like this is".

The New York Times - Books

And how encouraging that two of the three nominees for UK Station of the Year are not from the BBC Absolutee and TalkSport.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Dr. Carol Dweck in her book, "Mindset," talks about how attempts at encouraging kids should always be directed towards effort – supporting the "growth mindset".

Huffington Post

They should encourage their expression of thoughts and feelings regarding health, be aware of how they are encouraging or discouraging their child, use empowering terminology when they discuss their child's health (e.g., use words such as "healthy", "flexible", "agile", "fit", "strong", and "active"), hear their child out fully and avoid offering advice or solutions prematurely.

Huffington Post

And no matter how kind and encouraging we are, it's still a fail.

The Guardian

He pays full tribute to Francis, expressing how "beautiful and encouraging" it is that the Church is "alive and full of new possibilities".

The New Yorker

How refreshing and encouraging to read in the newspaper about education and educators without a word mentioned about grades, assessment, test scores or school rankings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your phrasing to avoid repetition. While "how encouraging" is useful, consider alternatives like "that's promising" or "that's uplifting" for a richer writing style.

Common error

Avoid using "how encouraging" sarcastically. The phrase inherently conveys a positive sentiment, so using it to express the opposite can confuse your audience. Choose a different phrase like "how disappointing" or "how predictable" for sarcastic intent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "how encouraging" functions as a relative clause, often introducing an expression of positive sentiment or approval regarding a specific situation or event. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "how encouraging" serves as a relative clause to express optimism and positive sentiment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When using it, be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation in sarcastic contexts. Remember that alternative phrases such as "that's heartening" or "that's promising" can offer nuanced variations. Considering all the data, "how encouraging" is a reliable and valuable phrase for expressing positivity in a variety of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's heartening

Emphasizes the positive emotional impact.

that's promising

Highlights potential for future success.

that's uplifting

Focuses on the positive and inspiring nature.

that's heartening to see

Adds a visual aspect to the encouraging feeling.

that's really inspiring

Focuses on the inspirational quality of the situation.

that's a good sign

Indicates a positive development or omen.

that's a welcome development

Suggests that the development is pleasing and desired.

that's a positive indication

Highlights the encouraging aspect as a sign of something good.

that's cause for optimism

Presents the situation as a reason to be hopeful.

that's a ray of hope

Implies a source of light or positivity in a difficult situation.

FAQs

How can I use "how encouraging" in a sentence?

You can use "how encouraging" to express a positive reaction to something inspiring or promising. For example, "How encouraging to see young people engaged in environmental activism."

What are some alternatives to "how encouraging"?

Alternatives include "that's heartening", "that's promising", or "that's uplifting". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "how encouraging" in formal writing?

Yes, "how encouraging" can be used in formal writing, particularly when expressing a sincere and positive observation. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "how encouraging" and "very encouraging"?

"How encouraging" expresses a stronger, more immediate sense of positivity, often as a reaction to something. "Very encouraging" is a more general description of something positive. For example, "The news is "very encouraging"," versus "How encouraging that the project is progressing so well!"