in anguish

USAGE SUMMARY

"in anguish" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a state of intense emotional or physical pain or suffering. Example: The mother waited for news of her missing child, her heart heavy with anguish.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I sobbed in anguish.

The New Yorker

He falls to the ground in anguish.

The New Yorker

He screams in anguish.

The Guardian - Sport

"I was in anguish.

The New York Times - Arts

Marie was last seen collapsing in anguish.

Independent

A nation screams in anguish.

The Guardian - Sport

Some were clearly in anguish.

The Guardian

He dropped down in anguish.

The Guardian

And yet he was in anguish.

The Guardian - Books

Lewis was in anguish over the primaries.

The New York Times - Magazine

His broad jaw drops in anguish.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in anguish" to vividly depict intense suffering or distress, whether physical or emotional. This phrase adds depth and emotional impact to your writing. For example: "The survivors cried out "in anguish" after the earthquake."

Common error

Avoid using "in anguish" to describe minor inconveniences or slight sadness. This phrase is reserved for situations involving profound pain or suffering. Overusing it diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in anguish" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is experienced. As shown by Ludwig, it indicates a state of intense suffering, pain, or distress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Academia

1%

Huffington Post

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in anguish" is a commonly used prepositional phrase that effectively describes a state of intense emotional or physical suffering. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, it's crucial to reserve it for situations involving profound pain or distress, avoiding its misuse for minor inconveniences. Alternatives such as "in torment" or "in agony" can offer nuanced ways to express similar feelings. Understanding the appropriate usage and context of "in anguish" enhances the clarity and emotional impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in torment

Focuses on the experience of severe suffering, whether physical or mental, intensifying the sense of distress.

in agony

Highlights intense physical or mental suffering, suggesting a more acute and immediate experience of pain.

in despair

Emphasizes the loss of hope and the feeling of utter hopelessness, shifting the focus from pain to despondency.

in distress

Refers to a state of being troubled or suffering, often encompassing both physical and emotional discomfort.

in suffering

Broadly describes the state of experiencing pain or hardship, without necessarily specifying the intensity or nature of the suffering.

in sorrow

Highlights the feeling of deep sadness or grief, emphasizing the emotional aspect of the experience.

in misery

Conveys a state of great unhappiness or suffering, often associated with difficult circumstances or misfortune.

in agony of spirit

Emphasizes the emotional and spiritual pain, highlighting a deep inner turmoil.

in a state of grief

Specifically indicates a period of mourning or deep sorrow, often following a loss.

in a painful state

Describes a condition marked by physical or emotional pain, without necessarily specifying the cause or intensity.

FAQs

How can I use "in anguish" in a sentence?

You can use "in anguish" to describe someone experiencing intense emotional or physical pain. For example, "She cried out "in anguish" when she heard the news."

What are some alternatives to saying "in anguish"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "in torment", "in agony", or "in despair" to express similar feelings of distress.

Is it appropriate to use "in anguish" in formal writing?

Yes, "in anguish" is appropriate for formal writing when describing severe emotional or physical pain. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it fits the overall style.

What's the difference between "in anguish" and "in sadness"?

"In anguish" implies a more intense and overwhelming feeling of pain or suffering, while "in sadness" suggests a milder state of sorrow or unhappiness.