it was crushing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was crushing" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a feeling of disappointment, sadness, or defeat. Example: "I had worked so hard for the promotion, but when I didn't get it, it was crushing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It was crushing for the remaining Republicans in a section of the country that once saw itself as the foundation of the party.

The New York Times

Rusch knew it was crushing.

The New York Times - Sports

It was crushing news for the average Pluto enthusiast.

The Washington Post

It was crushing the life of his city.

The New Yorker

And psychologically it was crushing and heartbreaking, and then we were left isolated to contemplate this.

The New Yorker

It was crushing for them to see him undone so easily.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

It was crushed during the shift.

The New York Times - Magazine

What spirit I had wasn't raised; it was crushed".

The New York Times - Books

It was crushed by the collapse of the north tower.

The New York Times

Before it was crushed, the Yugur Kingdom was in favor with the Hor (lit. benefitted by).

Columbia University

The reason why Islamic science failed to flourish is that it was crushed by Islamic theology.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was crushing", ensure the context clearly establishes what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For example, specify the event or situation that caused the feeling.

Common error

While "it was crushing" effectively conveys disappointment, avoid repetitive use in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "it was devastating" or "it was heartbreaking" to add nuance and maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was crushing" functions as a subjective assessment of an event or situation. It describes the intensity of negative feelings experienced as a result of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe a feeling of disappointment, sadness, or defeat.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was crushing" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a strong feeling of disappointment, sadness, or defeat. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and utility. Analysis of numerous examples reveals that it is most frequently used in news and media contexts. While suitable for general use, writers should consider more neutral alternatives for formal settings. To enhance clarity and impact, ensure the context establishes the referent of "it". By understanding the nuances of this phrase, writers can effectively convey the depth of emotional impact in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was a crushing blow

Reinforces the original phrase by using the synonym "blow" to describe the negative event.

it was devastating

Replaces "crushing" with "devastating", suggesting a more profound and widespread negative impact.

it was heartbreaking

Substitutes "crushing" with "heartbreaking", emphasizing the emotional pain and sorrow caused by the situation.

it was soul-destroying

Uses "soul-destroying" instead of "crushing" to convey a sense of profound and irreparable damage to one's spirit.

it was demoralizing

Replaces "crushing" with "demoralizing", highlighting the loss of confidence and motivation.

it was shattering

Substitutes "crushing" with "shattering", implying a sudden and forceful destruction of hopes or plans.

it was a major setback

Replaces the emotional term with a more neutral expression indicating a significant obstacle or delay.

it was a bitter blow

Uses a more idiomatic expression to describe the negative impact, suggesting a sharp and painful disappointment.

it was a significant disappointment

Replaces "crushing" with a more formal and understated expression of disappointment.

it felt like the end of the world

Emphasizes a more hyperbolic and emotive response by exaggerating the degree of devastation felt.

FAQs

How can I use "it was crushing" in a sentence?

Use "it was crushing" to express a feeling of severe disappointment or emotional distress resulting from a specific event or situation. For example, "Losing the championship game "it was crushing" after all our hard work."

What can I say instead of "it was crushing"?

You can use alternatives like "it was devastating", "it was heartbreaking", or "it was a crushing blow" depending on the context.

Is "it was crushing" too informal for professional writing?

While generally acceptable, "it was crushing" can sometimes be perceived as emotionally charged for formal or professional contexts. Consider using a more neutral alternative such as "it was a major setback" or "it was a significant disappointment" for greater objectivity.

What's the difference between "it was crushing" and "it was crushed"?

"It was crushing" describes the emotional impact of an event or situation, while "it was crushed" describes the physical state of something being broken or compressed. For example, "The news that he was leaving "it was crushing"," versus "The package "it was crushed" during shipping."