it is sinking in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is sinking in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the gradual understanding or realization of something that was previously unclear or difficult to comprehend. Example: "At first, I was shocked by the news, but now it's finally sinking in that I have to make some big changes in my life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But there are signs that it is sinking in.

The New York Times

"Although I got the letter in November, it is only now it is sinking in," she said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

And when you're getting this mail and you're getting told by society how awful a person you are, it was sinking in". .

Huffington Post

Instead it is sunk in poverty.

The Economist

And the bottom half of it is sunk in the sea.

The New Yorker

"I guess it's sinking in," his mother said.

The New York Times

Hightower: "It's sinking in as I speak.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think over time it's sinking in," Mr. Kerry said.

The New York Times

Police say officers found Robinson asleep in his Chevy Impala while it was sinking in the pond.

The Guardian - Sport

"He was just so focused on the games, that now, for the first time, it's sinking in".

The New York Times - Sports

"Slowly but surely it's sinking in," Rutgers guard Usha Gilmore said today before the team boarded a bus for Philadelphia.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using "it is sinking in". While widely acceptable, alternatives may be more appropriate for formal or specific situations.

Common error

Avoid using "it is sinking in" when describing a physical object submerged in water or any other liquid. The phrase is meant to be used to describe a delayed mental realization or emotional acceptance, not a physical process. If referring to a physical process, use phrases like "it is submerged" or "it is sinking".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is sinking in" functions as a comment on a realization or understanding that is gradually becoming clearer. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests a delayed comprehension. Examples show it used in contexts where an initial lack of understanding is being replaced by a growing awareness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is sinking in" effectively communicates a gradual realization or understanding of something that was previously unclear. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While not overly formal, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. For more formal or specific situations, alternative phrases such as "it is becoming clear" or "I am beginning to understand" may be more appropriate. Remember to avoid using it in contexts where a physical sinking is described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's dawning on me

Emphasizes a sudden or gradual realization, often implying a sense of surprise or enlightenment.

it's becoming clear

Focuses on the clarification of something previously unclear, suggesting a process of understanding.

it's registering now

Highlights the process of something being acknowledged or noticed by the mind.

i'm beginning to understand

Shifts the perspective to a personal understanding, indicating a gradual comprehension.

the penny is dropping

An idiomatic expression implying a sudden understanding after a period of confusion.

it's hitting home

Suggests that something is finally having a significant emotional or personal impact.

i'm grasping the concept

Focuses on understanding an idea or theory, often implying intellectual effort.

the realization is setting in

Highlights the gradual process of accepting a particular truth or situation.

it's getting through to me

Suggests that someone is finally understanding something after resistance or difficulty.

i'm cottoning on

Informal expression indicating that someone is starting to understand or realize something.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is sinking in" to describe a gradual realization or understanding. For example, "At first, I didn't understand the news, but now "it is sinking in" that I need to make some changes."

What can I say instead of "it is sinking in"?

You can use alternatives like "it is becoming clear", "it is dawning on me", or "I am beginning to understand" depending on the context.

Is "it is sinking in" formal or informal?

"It is sinking in" is generally considered to be neutral in formality. It is suitable for most everyday conversations and writings but might not be appropriate for highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "it is sinking in" and "it has sunk in"?

"It is sinking in" implies a process of gradual realization, while "it has sunk in" suggests a completed realization. For example, "It is sinking in that I need to move" means I'm starting to understand, whereas "It has sunk in that I need to move" means I fully understand and accept it.