it is refreshing to hear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is refreshing to hear" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a positive reaction to something that has been said, indicating that the information is new, pleasant, or uplifting. Example: "After a long discussion filled with negativity, it is refreshing to hear someone speak about the potential for positive change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

In a culture that worships at the altar of "winner take all, loser be humiliated" shows like "American Idol" and its clones, it is refreshing to hear of people who are true amateurs and the audiences that appreciate their effort.

The New York Times

Still, with few startups exits in Asia Chinanasidede — it is refreshing to hear a company committing its ambition to paper.

TechCrunch

It is refreshing to hear blunt words from politicians.

The New York Times

It is refreshing to hear someone cut through all the art-world mumbo-jumbo.

The New York Times

But so much is written lauding Toyota's production systems that it is refreshing to hear a dissenting voice.

The Economist

But it is refreshing to hear a politician acknowledge that some anti-migration rhetoric crosses the line into racism.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Writing in the New York Times, former Bill Clinton speechwriter Ted Widmer called it "the most Democratic State of the Union in some time," adding that "it was refreshing to hear him be himself".

Huffington Post

It was refreshing to hear the Andante, with its radiantly lyrical theme, not dawdled over for once, but phrased with cool, clear elegance.

The New York Times - Arts

The acoustic guitar carries with it so much cultural baggage that it's refreshing to hear it almost anew, unencumbered by its association with mewling singer-songwriters.

The Guardian - Music

And yet it's refreshing to hear his voice now.

The New York Times - Arts

It was refreshing to hear reaction to current events from sports figures.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is refreshing to hear" to introduce a contrasting opinion or a novel perspective, particularly after a series of conventional or negative statements.

Common error

While acceptable in most settings, avoid overusing "it is refreshing to hear" in very casual conversations. Simpler alternatives may sound more natural and less contrived.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is refreshing to hear" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating a positive reaction to something that has been said. According to Ludwig AI, it expresses a sentiment of novelty and positivity. It is often used to introduce a contrasting or welcome perspective.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

4%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is refreshing to hear" is a commonly used phrase to express a positive reaction to something new or different. It is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its function as an evaluative expression. While the phrase is widely accepted, consider using simpler alternatives in very informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a breath of fresh air to hear

Emphasizes the invigorating and revitalizing quality of the information.

it's nice to hear

A simpler, more general expression of pleasure upon hearing something.

it's heartening to hear

Highlights the encouraging and uplifting nature of the information.

it's encouraging to hear

Focuses on the positive and hopeful aspect of the information.

it's good to hear

A common and straightforward way to express satisfaction upon hearing something.

it's welcome news to hear

Highlights that the information received is particularly pleasant or needed.

it's a relief to hear

Stresses the alleviation of worry or stress upon hearing the information.

it's pleasing to hear

Emphasizes the agreeable and enjoyable quality of the information.

it's satisfying to hear

Indicates that the information fulfills a need or expectation.

it's delightful to hear

Highlights the charming and pleasant nature of the information.

FAQs

How can I use "it is refreshing to hear" in a sentence?

Use "it is refreshing to hear" to express a positive reaction to information that is new, different, or uplifting. For example, "After a long debate, it is refreshing to hear a compromise being suggested."

What are some alternatives to "it is refreshing to hear"?

You can use alternatives like "it's a breath of fresh air to hear", "it's nice to hear", or "it's encouraging to hear" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is refreshing to hear"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that something you've heard is pleasantly different or provides a welcome change from what you usually encounter. It implies a sense of novelty and positivity.

Is "it is refreshing to hear" formal or informal?

The phrase leans towards the neutral side, making it suitable for both professional and casual communication, although in very informal settings, simpler alternatives may be preferred.