it is heartbreaking

USAGE SUMMARY

'it is heartbreaking' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that causes sadness or regret. For example: "The news of her death was heartbreaking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is what has happened and it is heartbreaking to see this beautiful country, with all its history and culture, being annihilated – brought down to rubble.

Independent

"This is horrifying, it is heartbreaking.

The Guardian

"It is heartbreaking how many people suffered damage," he said.

The New York Times

"It is heartbreaking to be here right now".

The New York Times

"It is heartbreaking to imagine my husband by himself".

The New Yorker

"It is heartbreaking what is happening on our continent.

Independent

"It is heartbreaking to tie her up like this.

Independent

Watching those interviews was enraging then – it is heartbreaking now.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is heartbreaking to see what is happening".

The Guardian

It is heartbreaking and brutal and difficult and essential television.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It is heartbreaking to see a renegade country like Libya shoot pro-democracy protesters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "it is heartbreaking" with specific details to amplify its impact. Instead of just saying "it is heartbreaking", explain why it is heartbreaking, providing context and emotional resonance.

Common error

Avoid using "it is heartbreaking" excessively in sensationalized or exaggerated contexts. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing seem insincere or manipulative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is heartbreaking" functions as an expressive adjective phrase, conveying a strong feeling of sadness or sorrow. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules and provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

9%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is heartbreaking" is a versatile and widely used phrase for expressing deep sorrow or empathy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure your tone aligns with the gravity of the situation and provide specific details to enhance its emotional impact. While it is appropriate for expressing genuine sorrow, avoid overuse in trivial contexts to maintain its sincerity. Alternatives such as "it's devastating" or "it's deeply saddening" can also be considered to vary your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's devastating

This alternative emphasizes the overwhelming and destructive nature of the sadness.

it's deeply saddening

This phrase highlights the profound sense of sorrow that something evokes.

it's emotionally distressing

This option focuses on the emotional impact and the suffering it causes.

it's truly regrettable

This alternative suggests a strong sense of disappointment and sorrow over a particular situation.

it's a cause for grief

This phrase implies that the situation warrants mourning or deep sorrow.

it's profoundly upsetting

This option stresses the significant emotional disturbance caused by something.

it's a source of great sorrow

This alternative pinpoints the cause of deep sadness or grief.

it fills one with sorrow

This emphasizes the personal experience of being overwhelmed by sadness.

it's an utter tragedy

This phrase conveys a sense of profound loss and calamity.

it breaks your heart

A more figurative way of saying that something causes immense sadness and pain.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is heartbreaking" to express deep sorrow or empathy. For example, "It is heartbreaking to see the devastation caused by the earthquake".

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

You can use alternatives like "it's devastating", "it's deeply saddening", or "it's emotionally distressing" depending on the context.

Is "it is heartbreaking" formal or informal?

"It is heartbreaking" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts when expressing genuine sorrow or empathy. However, consider the audience and adjust your tone accordingly.

When is it inappropriate to use "it is heartbreaking"?

It is generally inappropriate to use "it is heartbreaking" in casual or trivial situations, or when attempting to be sarcastic. The phrase should be reserved for expressing genuine sorrow or empathy in serious contexts.