intensely distressing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intensely distressing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, event, or experience that causes a high level of emotional pain or anxiety. Example: "The news of the disaster was intensely distressing for the families affected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He said this happens most frequently when a person in a close relationship faces an intensely distressing life change, where the outcome is uncertain and the effort to adjust is prolonged, such as after a heart attack.

The New York Times - Science

It's been hard for Betty to agree even to a short stay in a care setting to convalesce; the idea of professionals interfering in her private affairs at home is clearly intensely distressing.

The Guardian

But at least the most intense terror was fleeting.By grim contrast, three years ago, a sophisticated and suicidal assault by ten well-trained gunmen on various sites, including a hotel, train station, Jewish centre and restaurant in Mumbai, was prolonged and intensely distressing.

The Economist

These transitions can be intensely distressing and we can also find blessings in them, the underlying glory.

Huffington Post

The electronic music pioneer said that these political outcomes, which are intensely distressing for many, will encourage people to reconsider the social structures of society.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It is intensely sad".

The New Yorker

Infertility is immensely distressing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

His role is an important daily reminder that Mr Mandela's failing health is an intensely personal issue for many of those now involved in the distressing task of managing the flow of information from a Pretoria hospital bed, to a waiting world.

BBC

And a distressing solipsism..

The New Yorker

It can be distressing.

The New Yorker

That's very distressing.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intensely distressing", ensure the context clearly establishes the source and nature of the distress. Specify what is causing the intense emotional pain.

Common error

Avoid using "intensely distressing" in situations that are merely inconvenient or mildly upsetting. Reserve it for scenarios involving significant emotional trauma or hardship to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intensely distressing" is to act as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe something that causes a high degree of emotional pain or anxiety. As Ludwig AI points out, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intensely distressing" is a grammatically sound and usable adjectival phrase employed to describe situations or events that evoke significant emotional pain or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, while the examples highlight its prevalence in news and media contexts. Although less frequent than simpler alternatives, its usage is appropriate when emphasizing the severity of the emotional impact. When writing, consider the potential for overuse and reserve this expression for scenarios that genuinely warrant such a strong description. Alternatives include "deeply upsetting" and "extremely agonizing", offering subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply upsetting

Emphasizes the emotional impact of causing someone to feel upset.

extremely agonizing

Highlights the painful and torturous nature of the experience.

severely troubling

Focuses on the problematic and disturbing aspects of the situation.

profoundly disturbing

Underscores the deep and unsettling nature of the event or information.

acutely painful

Highlights the sharp and intense emotional pain caused.

highly traumatic

Emphasizes the potential for long-lasting psychological damage.

exceptionally disheartening

Focuses on the loss of hope and encouragement.

terribly upsetting

Highlights the severe degree of emotional upset caused.

gravely concerning

Emphasizes the seriousness and worry associated with the issue.

bitterly disappointing

Highlights the feeling of letdown and disillusionment.

FAQs

How can I use "intensely distressing" in a sentence?

Use "intensely distressing" to describe situations or events that cause a high level of emotional pain or anxiety. For example, "The news of the accident was "intensely distressing" for the family".

What are some alternatives to "intensely distressing"?

You can use alternatives such as "deeply upsetting", "extremely agonizing", or "severely troubling" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "intensely distressing" formal or informal?

While not overly formal, "intensely distressing" is suitable for use in news reports and other professional contexts. More informal alternatives might include phrases like "really upsetting".

What makes something "intensely distressing" rather than just "distressing"?

The word "intensely" amplifies the degree of distress, indicating a much stronger emotional impact than simply "distressing". It suggests a situation that is profoundly upsetting and emotionally painful.