it is distressing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is distressing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing feelings of sadness, anxiety, or discomfort about a situation or event. Example: "Hearing about the recent events in the news, I must say it is distressing to see such suffering in the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Is It Even Different?" (Sept . 21: It is distressing that depression in young people is so prevalent.

The New York Times

As Jane suggests, in the above extract, it is distressing to witness the distress of your children.

Health and Place

It is distressing that a society cannot guarantee safety to its children.

Huffington Post

It is distressing, Correia says.

The Guardian

It is distressing for doctors to have to acknowledge the bell curve.

The New Yorker

We're learning institutions and this is something for everybody to learn from... "Look, it is distressing.

The Guardian

It is distressing to look at today – because it is an image for our time.

The Guardian - Arts

"It is distressing that so many people think they can change sex just like that.

The Guardian

It is distressing for visitors to see mounds of human ash, particularly so for our gardener.

The New Yorker

That is such a reasonable idea that it is distressing nobody tried it before.

The New York Times

"When I hear things like the renaming of 'frites' without 'French,' it is distressing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is distressing" to express concern or sadness about situations that cause emotional or mental discomfort. Be specific about what is causing the distress to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

While "it is distressing" is generally appropriate, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct expressions of sadness or concern in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is distressing" primarily functions as a sentence opener followed by a clause expressing concern or sadness about a particular situation. Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage in conveying negative emotional responses. It sets a tone of unease or worry.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is distressing" is a common and grammatically sound way to express concern, anxiety, or sadness about a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, appearing most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When using the phrase, it’s important to be specific about the cause of distress to enhance the clarity and impact of your writing. In more casual contexts, consider alternatives like "it is upsetting" or "it is troubling".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is upsetting

Focuses more on the emotional impact of something.

it is troubling

Suggests that something is causing worry or concern.

it is concerning

Highlights the worrisome nature of a situation.

it is worrying

Emphasizes the anxiety or apprehension caused.

it is disheartening

Indicates a loss of hope or enthusiasm.

it is regrettable

Expresses sorrow or disappointment about something.

it is unfortunate

Suggests bad luck or an undesirable outcome.

it is alarming

Highlights a sense of danger or urgency.

it is painful

Focuses on the emotional suffering caused.

it is depressing

Indicates that something is causing sadness or a low mood.

FAQs

What does "it is distressing" mean?

The phrase "it is distressing" means something is causing emotional pain, anxiety, or sadness. It's used to express concern or discomfort about a situation or event.

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

You can use "it is distressing" to express feelings of sadness or anxiety about a particular situation. For example, "It is distressing that so many people are affected by the crisis".

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

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

Is "it is distressing" formal or informal?

"It is distressing" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts but can be replaced with simpler terms like "it is sad" or "it is upsetting" in informal settings.