it is a mess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is a mess" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, place, or thing that is disorganized or chaotic. Example: "After the party, the living room was so cluttered that I had to admit it is a mess."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

And if so, which?It is a mess and it has been debated fruitlessly for years.

The Economist

Once children turned 16 and left the school system, "it is a mess: we are not used to having so many live into adulthood".

The Economist

- Islamist sect Boko Harem was behind a prison raid if the Nigerian city of Bama, freeing at least 105 prisoners while killing at least 55. - The Catholic League has taken a stance on David Bowie's new music video for his song "The Next Day", and has determined that "it is a mess".

Vice

Labour is not offering much of an alternative – unless its fudge is a Machiavellian strategy, it is a mess, quite frankly.

The Guardian - Opinion

Today, it is a mess.

The Economist

Economically it is a mess.

The New Yorker

But inside, it is a mess.

The New York Times

It is a mess technically.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"It's a mess".

The New York Times

"And it was a mess.

The New Yorker

Really, it was a mess".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it is a mess", be specific about what constitutes the mess. Provide context to clarify the nature and extent of the disorganization or problem. For example, instead of just saying "the project is a mess", explain which aspects are disorganized or failing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is a mess" as a standalone statement without further explanation. This can leave your audience confused and unsure of the specific problem you're addressing. Always follow up with details about the situation's disarray.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is a mess" functions as a descriptor, attributing a state of disorder or disarray to a subject. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, from describing physical spaces to abstract situations. The expression's grammatical structure is straightforward, with "it" serving as a pronoun, "is" as a linking verb, and "a mess" as a predicate nominative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is a mess" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe situations characterized by disorganization or disarray. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatile usage spans from informal conversations to news reporting. When using this phrase, providing specific context is crucial to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "it is a disaster" or "it is chaotic" can be used based on the severity of the situation. Predominantly found in News & Media, "it is a mess" serves as an effective way to express dissatisfaction and call attention to problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a disaster

This suggests a more severe and impactful negative outcome compared to a simple mess.

it's a total shambles

Emphasizes the completeness of the disorganization or failure.

it's chaotic

This focuses on the lack of order and control in the situation.

it's a shambles

This implies a state of utter disorganization and incompetence.

it's a state of chaos

Emphasizes the complete lack of order and control.

it's in disarray

This highlights the lack of order and arrangement.

it's a disorganized state

Highlights the lack of structured arrangement

it's a complete wreck

This suggests significant damage or ruin.

it's a snarl

Implies a complicated and difficult-to-resolve situation

it's all over the place

This emphasizes the scattered and disorganized nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "it is a mess" in a sentence?

You can use "it is a mess" to describe disorganized situations, places, or things. For example, "After the storm, the garden "it was a mess"" or "The project is behind schedule and "it is a mess"".

What can I say instead of "it is a mess"?

You can use alternatives like "it is chaotic", "it is a disaster", or "it is a shambles" depending on the context.

Is "it is a mess" formal or informal?

"It is a mess" is generally considered informal but acceptable in many contexts. In more formal settings, consider using alternatives that sound more professional such as "it is disorganized" or "it is in disarray".

What makes "it is a disaster" different from "it is a mess"?

"It is a disaster" implies a more significant and negative outcome than "it is a mess". While "it is a mess" indicates disorganization, "it is a disaster" suggests a failure or catastrophe.