it is distracting

USAGE SUMMARY

'it is distracting' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing something that is taking your attention away from what you are trying to do. For example, "I was trying to focus on my essay, but the loud music from outside was very distracting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Another customer says, "it is distracting, exceptionally loud in my ear, and very annoying".

The New York Times

Now, Mr. Hollywood said, hepatitis C has emerged, and it is distracting the staff of the treatment center from its primary job: helping people get off drugs.

The New York Times

It is distracting.

Nature

It is distracting, he said.

The New York Times

Most obviously, it is distracting attention from the contest.

The Economist

And she weighed in on the debate over Obama's citizenship, reportedly saying it is "distracting.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

While it is distracted by the clawing-fairies, using a Flame-Lick spell will damage it.

WikiHow

In this way, the power of technology is elevated due to its ability to facilitate without it being distracting.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

"It was distracting," Lisicki said.

The Guardian - Sport

"But it's distracting nonetheless".

The New Yorker

"Don't let it be distracting".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs or more descriptive adjectives to convey the degree of distraction more effectively (e.g., "it is severely distracting", "it is overwhelmingly distracting").

Common error

Avoid using "it is distracting" as a general statement without providing specific details about what 'it' refers to and why it is distracting. Clarity enhances the impact of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is distracting" primarily functions as a predicate adjective phrase, where 'it' serves as the subject, 'is' as the copula verb, and 'distracting' as the adjective describing the subject's effect. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is distracting" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something is diverting attention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for describing a range of distracting elements, from sounds to abstract concepts. While generally neutral in register, context is key. For clarity, always specify what 'it' refers to and why it's distracting. Consider stronger synonyms like it is disruptive when a stronger meaning is necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is a distraction

A more direct noun-based alternative.

it is a distraction

A more direct noun-based alternative.

it is disruptive

This alternative emphasizes the disturbance or interruption caused.

it is disruptive

This alternative emphasizes the disturbance or interruption caused.

it is disruptive

This alternative emphasizes the disturbance or interruption caused.

it is diverting attention

This alternative specifically highlights the redirection of focus.

it is drawing focus away

Similar to diverting attention, but emphasizes the act of pulling focus elsewhere.

it is a hindrance

This emphasizes the obstacle or impediment aspect.

it is an impediment

Similar to a hindrance, but may imply a more significant obstacle.

it is unsettling

This conveys a sense of unease or disturbance alongside distraction.

FAQs

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

Use "it is distracting" to describe something that diverts attention from the intended focus, such as "The bright flashing lights in the background "it is distracting" during the presentation".

What are some alternatives to "it is distracting"?

Alternatives include "it is disruptive", "it is diverting attention", or "it is a hindrance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it is distracting" or "it was distracting"?

The choice depends on the tense of the sentence. Use "it is distracting" for present or general statements and "it was distracting" for past situations. For instance, "The noise outside "it is distracting" now", versus "The noise outside "it was distracting" earlier".

What makes something "distracting"?

Something is "distracting" when it draws attention away from the intended focus, often due to being noisy, visually stimulating, or otherwise disruptive. Consider factors like personal preferences and context when assessing what constitutes a distraction.