it will be awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it will be awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that is likely to be uncomfortable or tense. Example: "When we meet for the first time after the argument, it will be awkward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"It will be awkward," Fratello said.

The New York Times - Sports

We wonder if it will be awkward to run into them in the elevator tomorrow.

The New Yorker

It will be awkward to remember, sure, but there won't be much practical difference.

The Guardian

That night at dinner I told Ryan, "If you die from paragliding, it will be awkward for me".

The New York Times - Travel

So does he think it will be awkward to now represent the very companies he once was responsible for policing?

The New York Times

It will be awkward for Rubio to avoid all of his big rallies, and with less and less split-ticket voting, their fortunes may be inextricably tied.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

"It'll be awkward," Westwood said.

The New York Times - Sports

"It'll be awkward," he said, "when they're like, 'This question's from Mark in Texas.' Mark asks: 'What else is on?' ".

The New York Times

(See "HP Tops Dell Bid for 3PAR").. It'll be awkward for Dell if it doesn't win.

Forbes

It'll be awkward, but, pass me a beer.

Vice

"A lot of people, at first, think it'll be awkward to talk about, and they wonder How do I bring it up?

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, "it will be awkward" can add realism, as people often verbalize anticipated discomfort.

Common error

Avoid using "it will be awkward" when a situation is genuinely serious or dangerous. Overusing the phrase in such contexts can diminish the gravity of the situation and appear insensitive.

Linguistic Context

It will be awkward functions as a predictive statement, indicating that a future event is expected to cause social discomfort or tension. Ludwig examples show its use in anticipating potentially embarrassing or uncomfortable situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

40%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it will be awkward" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression to foreshadow potential social discomfort. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent appearance in news and media, as well as in wiki-based content, suggesting its broad applicability in anticipating awkward situations. While versatile, it's crucial to use the phrase judiciously, avoiding overstatement in serious contexts and considering alternative expressions like "it will be uncomfortable" or "things could get sticky" for varied tones and contexts. By anticipating potential awkwardness, speakers and writers can effectively prepare their audience and navigate sensitive social dynamics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's going to be uncomfortable

Focuses more directly on the feeling of discomfort the situation will cause.

it's bound to be tense

Highlights the potential for a strained atmosphere.

it's likely to be difficult

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the situation, not necessarily the social discomfort.

it may be a bit strained

Suggests a slight lack of ease or naturalness.

things could get sticky

Informal way of saying things could get complicated and uncomfortable.

it might get hairy

Informal way of saying things could get out of control.

a sense of unease is likely

A more formal and detached way of expressing the anticipation of discomfort.

that could lead to some friction

Suggests potential conflict or disagreement.

the atmosphere might be charged

Focuses on a palpable tension in the air.

there's potential for embarrassment

Highlights the possibility of feeling ashamed or self-conscious.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it will be awkward" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases such as "it will be uncomfortable", "it will be strained", or "it may present challenges depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a more casual way to say "it will be awkward"?

Yes, you can use more casual alternatives like "things could get sticky", "that could be weird", or simply "that'll be awkward".

What does "it will be awkward" imply in a conversation?

Using "it will be awkward" suggests that a future situation is likely to cause social discomfort, tension, or unease. It's often used to preemptively acknowledge potential difficulties and prepare others for them.

How to avoid a situation that "it will be awkward"?

To avoid a situation that "it will be awkward", try to anticipate potential sources of discomfort and address them proactively. This might involve setting clear boundaries, having open communication, or avoiding sensitive topics altogether.