it appears distressing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it appears distressing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation or observation that seems to cause concern or discomfort. Example: "After reviewing the report, it appears distressing that the data shows a significant increase in accidents."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

This portrait of an ugly marriage as it appears to an adolescent is a harrowing, deeply distressing and memorable, if not exactly enjoyable, comedy.

The New York Times

As a portrait of an ugly marriage as it appears to an adolescent, "Joe and Betty" is a harrowing, deeply distressing and memorable, if not exactly enjoyable, comedy.

The New York Times

Based on both their high frequency and their potentially distressing effect on both the resident and the caregivers, it appears that some specific behaviours, such as hitting and insults, deserve more attention from researchers.

BMC Geriatrics

Ms. Woodall says her husband is hopeless with color, while Ms. Constantine's husband has a bad habit of proudly appearing with distressing "bargains" -- three pairs of pants for $15, say -- and then asking her opinion.

The New York Times - Style

The verbal mentation that characterizes worry, and particularly the worry of those with GAD, appears to maintain distressing intrusive thoughts and images, and therefore the worry process.

Behaviour Research and Therapy

This appears easier and less distressing to cope with when compared to children with JDM who may need to inject themselves with doses of insulin two to three times daily as the case may be [ 29].

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

It was distressing.

Independent

"It's distressing".

The New York Times

Warning: it contains distressing images.

The Guardian

It was distressing and moving.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is distressing, Correia says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it appears distressing", ensure that the source of the distress is clear to the reader. Providing specific context will enhance understanding and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "it appears distressing" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations genuinely causing significant emotional or psychological discomfort to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it appears distressing" functions as an observation or assessment. It suggests that based on available information or a particular viewpoint, something seems to be causing emotional distress or worry. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it appears distressing" is a grammatically sound way to express that a situation seems to be causing concern or emotional distress. While Ludwig identifies the phrase as correct and usable, the frequency is relatively rare and is more commonly found in News & Media or Science contexts. Consider using alternatives like "it seems upsetting" or "it looks troubling" for similar effect. Be mindful of overstating the level of distress to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it seems upsetting

Replaces "distressing" with "upsetting", suggesting a slightly stronger emotional impact.

it looks troubling

Substitutes "appears distressing" with "looks troubling", indicating concern about potential problems.

it seems concerning

Uses "concerning" instead of "distressing", highlighting the worrisome aspect of the situation.

it gives cause for alarm

Rephrases to emphasize the creation of a sense of urgency and worry.

it raises concerns

Focuses on the action of generating worry or questions about a situation.

it presents a grim picture

Emphasizes the negative and bleak nature of what is being observed.

it suggests unease

Shifts the focus to a feeling of discomfort or anxiety caused by the situation.

the situation seems dire

Uses "dire" to convey a sense of urgency and potential catastrophe.

things look bleak

Offers a more straightforward expression of a pessimistic outlook.

the outlook is grim

Similar to "it presents a grim picture", but focuses specifically on future prospects.

FAQs

What does "it appears distressing" mean?

The phrase "it appears distressing" means that something seems to be causing worry, suffering, or pain. It indicates that a situation or observation gives the impression of being upsetting or troubling.

How can I use "it appears distressing" in a sentence?

You can use "it appears distressing" to describe situations or observations that seem to cause concern. For example: "After reviewing the report, "it appears distressing" that the data shows a significant increase in accidents."

What can I say instead of "it appears distressing"?

You can use alternatives like "it seems upsetting", "it looks troubling", or "it seems concerning" depending on the context.

Is "it appears distressing" formal or informal?

"It appears distressing" is relatively neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in slightly formal or professional settings than casual conversation.