is grotesque

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is grotesque" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is comically or repulsively ugly or distorted. Example: "The artwork in the gallery is grotesque, with its exaggerated features and unsettling colors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The situation is grotesque.

The Economist

It is grotesque.

The New Yorker

I think it is grotesque.

The Guardian - Business

This is grotesque.

The New York Times

To others, it is grotesque.

The New York Times

"Well, this is grotesque," he said.

The New York Times - Style

(Unterlinden Museum, Colmar, Fr.; see photograph), is grotesque and horrifying.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The scene is grotesque yet gentle, in beatific-surreal style.

The New Yorker

His art is grotesque, violent, and utterly fascinating.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The world is grotesque and unkind in this disturbing drawing.

The Guardian - Arts

The first is distilled futility, but the second is grotesque: there is the student, trying to be you with all his youthful might.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is grotesque" to describe something that is not only ugly but also distorted or unnatural, evoking a sense of unease or disgust in your reader.

Common error

While "is grotesque" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid it in highly formal or academic writing where a more neutral or precise term might be preferable. Consider alternatives like "is abnormal" or "is distorted" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is grotesque" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or noun phrase by ascribing to it the quality of being distorted and unnatural, often to a repulsive degree. Ludwig AI confirms that the construction is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Arts

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is grotesque" serves as a powerful descriptor for something distorted, unnatural, and deeply unpleasant. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and sees frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its function is primarily to express a strong negative evaluation, often evoking feelings of disgust or horror. While generally neutral in register, its emotional weight makes it suitable for both objective reporting and expressing personal reactions. When a writer wants to say the same using different words, they have at disposal viable alternatives as "is absurd", "is monstrous" or "is hideous". While effective, writers should exercise caution in formal settings where a more neutral expression may better serve the intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is hideous

Focuses specifically on extreme ugliness.

is monstrous

Emphasizes the frightening or inhuman aspect of something.

is repulsive

Highlights the quality of causing disgust or aversion.

is absurd

Shifts focus to the ridiculous or illogical nature of something, rather than its repulsive qualities.

is unnatural

Emphasizes the deviation from what is considered normal or typical.

is appalling

Emphasizes the shocking and offensive nature of something.

is outrageous

Focuses on the unacceptable or shocking nature.

is distorted

Focuses on something being twisted out of its original shape or meaning.

is deformed

Highlights a distorted or misshapen form.

is preposterous

Highlights the utter absurdity and lack of reason.

FAQs

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

You can use "is grotesque" to describe something that is comically or repulsively ugly or distorted. For example, "The painting "is grotesque", with its exaggerated features and unsettling colors."

What can I say instead of "is grotesque"?

You can use alternatives like "is absurd", "is monstrous", or "is hideous" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is grotesque" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "is grotesque" when you want to emphasize that something is not only ugly but also distorted or unnatural, often evoking a strong negative emotional response. However, be mindful of your audience and the formality of the context; in more formal settings, a less emotionally charged alternative might be more suitable.

What are the connotations of using the phrase "is grotesque"?

The phrase "is grotesque" carries strong negative connotations, suggesting that something is deeply unpleasant, distorted, and often evokes feelings of disgust or horror. It implies a significant deviation from what is considered normal or acceptable.