it was grotesque

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was grotesque" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is shockingly ugly or unnatural, often evoking a strong emotional reaction. Example: "The painting was so distorted and bizarre that it was grotesque, leaving viewers feeling unsettled."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It was grotesque.

The New York Times

It was grotesque but still true.

The Guardian

It was cartoonish, it was reckless, it was grotesque.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was grotesque — and it was also ominous.

The New York Times

It was grotesque and so plain and simple".

The Guardian

In Yingling's view, it was grotesque to exploit that honor "as a political asset".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

It is grotesque.

The New Yorker

It's grotesque.

The Washington Post

I think it is grotesque.

The Guardian - Business

To others, it is grotesque.

The New York Times

"It's grotesque," felt Kicker magazine.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was grotesque" to vividly describe something that is shockingly ugly, unnatural, or morally repugnant, ensuring the context clearly conveys the intense negativity associated with the term.

Common error

Avoid using "it was grotesque" to describe mildly unpleasant or inconvenient situations. This phrase carries significant weight and should be reserved for truly shocking or disturbing scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was grotesque" functions as a declarative statement expressing a strong negative evaluation. It asserts that something observed or experienced is shockingly ugly, unnatural, or morally repugnant. As Ludwig AI indicates, this usage is correct and applicable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was grotesque" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing strong disapproval or disgust, primarily found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, offering numerous examples demonstrating its usage. While the phrase is powerful, it is crucial to employ it judiciously, reserving it for situations that genuinely warrant such a strong negative evaluation. Alternatives such as "it was appalling" or "it was hideous" can provide similar sentiments with varying degrees of intensity. When writing, remember that this phrase should accurately reflect the gravity of the described situation, avoiding overuse in mild contexts. Keep in mind is primarily found in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was appalling

Strong negative connotation, emphasizes causing shock or dismay.

it was repulsive

Focuses on causing intense disgust or aversion.

it was hideous

Emphasizes extreme ugliness or unpleasantness.

it was monstrous

Implies something unnatural or frighteningly large and ugly.

it was ghastly

Suggests a horrifying or ghostly quality.

it was sickening

Focuses on causing nausea or moral revulsion.

it was dreadful

Emphasizes being extremely unpleasant or of very poor quality.

it was offensive

Focuses on causing hurt feelings, anger or outrage.

it was distasteful

Suggests something unpleasant and unacceptable.

it was vile

Emphasizes extreme unpleasantness or wickedness.

FAQs

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

Use "it was grotesque" to describe something shockingly ugly or unnatural. For example, "The distorted painting was so bizarre that "it was grotesque", unsettling the viewers."

What are some alternatives to "it was grotesque"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "it was appalling", "it was repulsive", or "it was hideous" to express similar sentiments.

Is it appropriate to use "it was grotesque" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "it was grotesque" is a strong expression. Consider your audience and the formality of the context. If you are unsure, a less evocative phrase may be more suitable.

What's the difference between "it was grotesque" and "it was ridiculous"?

"It was grotesque" implies something is shockingly ugly or unnatural, evoking strong disgust or revulsion. "It was ridiculous", on the other hand, suggests something is absurd, nonsensical, or laughable. The former carries a much stronger negative connotation.