it was galling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was galling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express annoyance or irritation at a situation or behavior that is perceived as unfair or frustrating. Example: "When I found out that my colleague took credit for my work, it was galling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Probably the greatest season in British football history, like its only serious rival, Manchester United's 1999 treble, it was galling for rivals not solely on account of its unprecedented achievement, but because the circumstances in which it occurred were so obviously unrepeatable.

The Guardian - Sport

Despite a handsome pay-off, it was galling.

The Guardian

For Southgate, unashamedly patriotic, it was galling to see the disconnect between team and supporters.

The Guardian - Sport

So it was galling to hear Robert Gates, America's defence secretary, complain recently about his allies in southern Afghanistan.

The Economist

The architecture slump that followed the bursting of the real estate bubble was hard on peers, but it was galling in a different way for Mr. Kushner.

The New York Times

The end of the race was as astonishing as it was galling for Hamilton, with this memorable week closing in the most gut-wrenching of ways.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

It is galling that he keeps his ludicrous pay packet.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet it is galling to hear ministers lament evidence of poor social work practice when they have contributed so much to the undermining of the profession.

The Guardian

When you say your child's autistic, the first question you get asked is, "What's their talent?" And it's galling.

The Guardian - Books

It is galling that he thinks he's entitled to three more months and, moreover, that he can decide how we shall be governed until 2006.

The New York Times

People have said, "Who is this girl who's written stuff as though she's come off a council estate?" It's galling.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was galling" to express frustration or annoyance at a situation you perceive as unfair or undeserved. It is suitable for conveying a sense of irritation, especially when something unexpected happens.

Common error

Avoid using "it was galling" too frequently in casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in everyday contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it was annoying" or "it was frustrating" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was galling" primarily functions as an adjective phrase expressing a subjective feeling of annoyance or irritation. It's used to describe a situation or event that evokes frustration, often due to a sense of unfairness. Ludwig AI provides examples where this phrase is used to convey disappointment and resentment in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

20%

Opinion

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was galling" is a grammatically sound and relatively sophisticated way to express annoyance or frustration, according to Ludwig AI. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts, where it adds a touch of formality to the expression of negative feelings. While perfectly acceptable, overuse in informal settings might sound stilted. Remember that while the phrase is used in a wide variety of sources, there are suitable alternatives such as "it was infuriating" or "it was frustrating" depending on the context. Consider the register and audience when deciding whether to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was infuriating

Replaces 'galling' with a stronger term emphasizing intense anger or outrage.

it was frustrating

Highlights the feeling of being blocked or hindered.

it was irritating

Substitutes 'galling' with a milder term denoting annoyance.

it was aggravating

Similar to irritating, but suggests a more persistent annoyance.

it was vexing

Uses a less common, slightly more formal synonym for 'galling'.

it was provoking

Emphasizes the aspect of the situation that incites anger or resentment.

it was displeasing

A more subdued alternative indicating dissatisfaction.

it was bitter

Emphasizes the feeling of resentment and disappointment, suggesting a deeper emotional impact.

it was disappointing

Focuses on the frustration arising from unmet expectations.

it was disheartening

Highlights the loss of morale or enthusiasm caused by the situation.

FAQs

What does "it was galling" mean?

The phrase "it was galling" means that something was very irritating, annoying, or frustrating. It suggests a feeling of exasperation, often because of something perceived as unfair or undeserved.

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

You can use alternatives like "it was infuriating", "it was irritating", or "it was frustrating" depending on the context.

Is "it was galling" formal or informal?

"It was galling" is generally considered more formal than phrases like "it was annoying" or "it was irritating". It's suitable for news articles, formal writing, or expressing a somewhat stronger sense of displeasure.

How do I use "it was galling" in a sentence?

You can use "it was galling" to describe a situation or event that caused you frustration or annoyance. For example, "It was galling to see my hard work being ignored."