it will be a pity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it will be a pity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express regret or disappointment about a future situation or outcome. Example: "If we miss the concert, it will be a pity because we've been looking forward to it for months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It will be a pity if the commission does not change its mind.

The Economist

If so it will be a pity.

The Guardian - Books

It will be a pity if, at the end of the day, this argument prevails.

The New York Times

It will be a pity if his opposition scuppers the proposals.

The Economist

It will be a pity if people are put off the first idea because they find the second one goes a step too far.

The Economist

If nothing more comes of this affair, it will be a pity, for it touches on a vital issue for the future of the French Republic.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It is especially unlikely to at a time when the country is exerting its military power more strenuously, which makes it feel stronger and at the same time highlights the possible vulnerability of its soldiers to global courts.It will be a pity, though, if at least a moderated form of this trade-off cannot eventually be made by America for the international criminal court.

The Economist

If this happens, it will be a great pity.

The New Yorker

If this happens it will be a great pity, and not only for the countryside.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It will be a great pity if this agreement were to be destroyed by rogue newcomers to the world of politics," he said.

The New Yorker

They will surely mature, and that in some ways will be a pity, because their youthfulness is so musically fruitful.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing. While generally acceptable, "it will be a pity" might be too informal for highly formal or academic contexts. Choose a more formal synonym like "it would be regrettable" for those situations.

Common error

Avoid using "it will be a pity" excessively in formal writing. Over-reliance can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Vary your expressions with alternatives such as "it would be unfortunate" or "it would be regrettable" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it will be a pity" functions as an expression of regret or disappointment regarding a future event or possibility. It sets a tone of mild sorrow or concern, indicating that the speaker views the potential outcome as undesirable. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it will be a pity" is a common and grammatically correct way to express mild regret or disappointment about a potential future outcome. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media, but is generally neutral in tone. When writing, consider the level of formality required and choose synonyms like "it would be unfortunate" or "it would be regrettable" for highly formal situations. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound less sophisticated, so it's beneficial to vary your expressions. Understanding these nuances will help you use "it will be a pity" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be a shame

Expresses a similar sentiment but uses "shame" instead of "pity", implying something unfortunate might happen.

it would be regrettable

A more formal way of expressing a similar sentiment, suggesting that the outcome would cause regret.

it would be unfortunate

Indicates that the outcome would not be ideal or desirable.

that's a shame

Similar to "it would be a shame" but uses a slightly different structure.

that's a pity

A slightly more direct way of expressing regret or disappointment.

it's a matter of regret

Emphasizes the feeling of regret associated with the situation.

it's a crying shame

Emphasizes the extent to which the situation is regrettable or unjust.

it's too bad

A more casual way of expressing disappointment.

it's a cause for sorrow

Highlights the sadness or sorrow that the outcome would bring.

it's a lost cause

Implies that the situation is hopeless and there's no point in trying.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "it will be a pity"?

Use "it will be a pity" to express mild regret or disappointment about a potential future event or situation. It suggests that the outcome is undesirable but not catastrophic.

What are some alternatives to "it will be a pity"?

Some alternatives include "it would be a shame", "it would be unfortunate", or "it would be regrettable", depending on the level of formality required.

Is "it will be a pity" formal or informal?

"It will be a pity" is generally considered neutral in tone. While acceptable in many contexts, it might be too informal for highly academic or professional writing. Consider a more formal alternative in such cases.

How does "it will be a pity" compare to "that's a pity"?

"It will be a pity" refers to a potential future event, whereas "that's a pity" refers to a current or past situation. For example, "If the meeting is canceled, "it will be a pity"" (future) versus "The meeting was canceled; "that is a pity"" (past).