it is appalling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is appalling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express strong disapproval or shock regarding a situation or behavior. Example: "The lack of action on climate change is appalling and demands immediate attention."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its spokesman Ben Jones told the Guardian: "It is appalling that British Gymnastics is imposing Islamic blasphemy laws.

The Guardian - Sport

Its programmatic unanimity is as bland as it is appalling.

The New Yorker

"It is appalling that casual business dress may be losing its appeal," he writes.

The New York Times

She said: "It is appalling.

The Guardian

It is appalling, says Farage.

The Guardian

It is appalling, and far too high.

The Guardian

But placed in context it is appalling.

The New York Times

"It is appalling that the I.M.F.

The New York Times

It is appalling that such behavior is sanctioned".

The New York Times

This is as compelling as it is appalling.

The Washington Post

"It is appalling and outrageous that Jason remains behind bars.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is appalling", ensure the context clearly indicates what you find appalling. Providing specific details strengthens your statement and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "it is appalling" is widely used, be mindful of your audience. In very casual settings, consider slightly less formal alternatives like "that's awful" or "that's terrible" for better resonance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is appalling" functions as an evaluative expression, used to convey a strong negative judgment or disapproval. Examples in Ludwig show it being used to express outrage over various issues, ranging from political decisions to social injustices. It serves to highlight the speaker's or writer's sense of shock and moral indignation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is appalling" is a phrase used to convey strong disapproval, outrage, or shock. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While primarily neutral to formal in register, it's essential to consider the audience and context when using it, opting for less intense alternatives in casual settings. Alternatives include phrases like "it is shocking" or "it is outrageous". By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "it is appalling" to express your strong negative judgments while maintaining clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It is dreadful

Synonymous replacement that emphasizes the severity and unpleasantness of something.

It is shocking

Focuses on the surprising and disturbing nature of something.

It is outrageous

Highlights the unacceptability and offensive nature of something.

It is horrifying

Emphasizes the fear and terror induced by something.

It is unacceptable

States that something cannot be tolerated or allowed.

It is disgusting

Conveys a strong feeling of revulsion and distaste.

It is reprehensible

Focuses on the blameworthiness and deservingness of condemnation of something.

It is deplorable

Emphasizes the deserving of strong condemnation, often for moral reasons.

It is shameful

Highlights the disgracefulness and embarrassment associated with something.

It is regrettable

Indicates that something is unfortunate and causes sorrow or disappointment.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is appalling" to express strong disapproval or shock about a situation. For example, "It is appalling that the company neglected safety regulations."

What can I say instead of "it is appalling"?

Alternatives include "it is shocking", "it is outrageous", or "it is dreadful" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "it is appalling"?

It's appropriate to use "it is appalling" when you want to express a strong negative reaction to something, typically in more formal or serious contexts. However, it is important to be mindful of your audience and the situation and adjust the level of formality accordingly.

Is "it is appalling" too strong of a phrase to use?

While "it is appalling" conveys a strong sentiment, its appropriateness depends on the context. In formal or serious discussions, it is perfectly acceptable. However, in casual conversations, less intense alternatives like "it's awful" or "it is terrible" might be more suitable.