is a torment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a torment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes great pain or suffering, either physically or emotionally. Example: "The constant noise from the construction site is a torment to my concentration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The monthly cycle is a torment: life becomes a matter of periods.

The Guardian

Lincoln needs to fight on, but perpetuating the bloodshed and bitterness is a torment to him.

The Guardian - Film

Fawcett has tried to be staunch, but it is clear that the early death of "Bobbi Boland" is a torment.

The New Yorker

Building peace is difficult but living without it is a torment," Mr. Lombardi quoted the pontiff as saying.

Independent

It is a torment and a privilege: having come so close to dying at 19, I haven't wasted my life.

The Guardian - Sport

Mockery at school has left her anxious and sad, and going out is a torment: the fear of being stared at keeps her virtually housebound.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The distinction between terrorism and more respectable forms of killing is a tormenting one.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, October 31 , 1983P. 35 The distinction between terrorism and more respectable forms of killing is a tormenting one.

The New Yorker

By William McKibben The New Yorker, October 31 , 1983P. 35 The distinction between terrorism and more respectable forms of killing is a tormenting one.

The New Yorker

Every class was a torment.

Independent

It's a torment.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is a torment" to vividly describe situations or experiences that cause significant mental or emotional distress. This phrase can add depth and intensity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "is a torment" in overly casual or trivial situations. The phrase's intensity is best reserved for scenarios involving genuine suffering to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

"Is a torment" functions as a predicate nominative, where 'is' is a linking verb connecting the subject to the noun phrase 'a torment'. This phrase describes a state of being or condition that causes significant suffering or anguish. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is a torment" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, primarily employed to convey a state of intense suffering or anguish. Ludwig AI confirms this, with examples sourced mainly from news and media outlets. While not exceedingly common, it effectively adds depth to descriptions of difficult experiences. Related phrases include "is agonizing" and "is excruciating", which offer similar but nuanced ways to express profound distress. When using "is a torment", reserve it for situations genuinely deserving of such a strong descriptor to maintain its impact and avoid overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is agonizing

Replaces "torment" with a synonym emphasizing severe pain or distress.

is excruciating

Similar to "agonizing", but intensifies the degree of pain.

is a source of anguish

Replaces "torment" with a phrase emphasizing the emotional distress caused.

is a form of suffering

Generalizes "torment" to a broader concept of suffering.

is deeply distressing

Focuses on the mental or emotional upset caused.

is a constant pain

Highlights the persistent nature of the suffering.

is a heavy burden

Shifts the focus to the oppressive weight or difficulty.

is incredibly frustrating

Emphasizes the irritation and discouragement caused.

is a trial

Frames the situation as a difficult test or ordeal.

is pure hell

Uses a more colloquial expression to convey extreme unpleasantness.

FAQs

How can I use "is a torment" in a sentence?

The phrase "is a torment" describes something causing great suffering or anguish. For example, "The constant noise from the construction site "is a torment" to my concentration".

What are some alternatives to "is a torment"?

You can use alternatives like "is agonizing", "is excruciating", or "is a source of anguish" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "is a torment" and "is frustrating"?

"Is a torment" implies a deeper level of suffering than "is frustrating". Torment suggests severe mental or emotional pain, while frustration suggests annoyance or irritation.

Is it appropriate to use "is a torment" in formal writing?

Yes, "is a torment" is appropriate for formal writing when describing significant suffering. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall message.