it was so sick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was so sick" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in informal contexts to express that something was impressive, exciting, or enjoyable. Example: "The concert last night was so sick; the energy in the crowd was incredible!"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"I thought it was so sick, it's perfect".

The New York Times

I would get in a one-way street, and I would keep driving backwards — it was so sick.

The New York Times - Arts

I sat in the backseat of my friend's car while we just drove around, and it was so sick because I felt like I was the car.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The first time I did it, I was so sick I was glad when it was over.

The Guardian - Arts

In the weeks leading up to it, I was so sick.

Vice

This dinner was like the tenth time he talked to me about it, and I was so sick of it that I came home and said, "Fuck this, let's show him what a tablet can really be".

The New Yorker

But it was easy in another sense, because I was so sick of it".

The New York Times - Magazine

He added, "The two had an extremely special relationship, and I was so sick of it".

The New York Times

After a few months of this, I was so sick of it I didn't care about anything.

The New Yorker

"And I was so sick of that.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is so sick.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was so sick" in informal conversations, be aware of your audience as some might find the slang inappropriate. Consider context and relationship.

Common error

Be aware that while "it was so sick" is positive slang, using it in formal writing or with audiences unfamiliar with the term can lead to miscommunication. Stick to alternatives like "amazing" or "impressive" in professional contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was so sick" functions as an adjective phrase, expressing a strong subjective assessment. Ludwig AI indicates its use can denote something exceptionally good or, conversely, something appalling depending on context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was so sick" is a versatile expression that can convey either strong approval or strong disapproval depending on the context and tone. As Ludwig AI confirms, its slang nature means it's generally more appropriate for informal settings. While sources like The New York Times and The Guardian do use it, remember that more formal alternatives such as "amazing" or "repulsive" may be more suitable for professional communication. Always consider your audience and the intended message when choosing to use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was amazing

Replaces "sick" with a more general term of positive approval.

it was incredible

Similar to "amazing" but suggests a higher degree of impressiveness.

it was awesome

Another general term for expressing something found highly impressive or enjoyable.

it was fantastic

Conveys strong positive sentiment and enjoyment.

it was unbelievable

Implies that something was so extraordinary that it was hard to believe.

it was repulsive

Replaces with an antonym, now expressing strong disapproval.

it was disgusting

Expresses strong dislike or revulsion.

it was appalling

Indicates something shockingly bad or unpleasant.

it was sickening

Another variation to denote something appalling.

it was dreadful

Describes something extremely unpleasant or inferior.

FAQs

What does "it was so sick" mean?

The phrase "it was so sick" is a slang term that generally means something is very cool, amazing, or impressive. However, depending on the context, it can also mean something is disgusting or awful.

Is "it was so sick" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "it was so sick" is not generally appropriate in formal writing. It's best to use more professional alternatives such as "it was amazing" or "it was impressive".

What can I say instead of "it was so sick" to express positive sentiment?

You can use alternatives like "it was awesome", "it was incredible", or "it was fantastic" to express that you found something very cool, amazing, or impressive.

How has the meaning of "sick" changed over time?

The word "sick" traditionally meant ill or unwell, but in recent decades it has also come to be used as slang to mean something is very good or impressive. The slang usage likely arose from the idea that something is so good it's 'unbelievable' or 'crazy,' thus 'sick.'