it would be a pity

USAGE SUMMARY

The part "it would be a pity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a bad outcome might result from something. For example: I wanted to go to the concert but I couldn't find a babysitter, it would be a pity to miss it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If Intel does start building its most advanced factories elsewhere, it would be a pity.

Forbes

Although the flavor is what counts, it would be a pity to strip its beautiful ruby tint.

The New York Times - Food

Actually, it would be a pity.

The Economist

"It would be a pity," Patrick says.

The New York Times

It would be a pity if they could not.

The Economist

But it would be a pity if he were right.

The Economist

"It would be a pity to lose this contribution..

The Guardian

It would be a pity to damage yours".

The Guardian - Film

It would be a pity and shame if he goes.

The Guardian - Sport

It would be a pity if slow deliberations by regulators prevented this particular innovation from proceeding.

The New York Times

"It would be a pity to be killed, of course," Stewart said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it would be a pity", ensure the context clearly indicates what the negative outcome is and why it's undesirable. Providing specific reasons strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it would be a pity" too frequently in your writing. While it's a useful phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "it would be a shame" or "it would be unfortunate".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it would be a pity" functions as an expression of mild regret or concern regarding a potential negative outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It suggests that a certain event or situation, if it were to occur, would be undesirable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it would be a pity" is a commonly used phrase to express mild regret or concern about a potential negative outcome. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable across various contexts. As our analysis shows, the phrase is most frequently found in News & Media sources, followed by Science and Formal & Business settings. While generally considered neutral in tone, more formal alternatives exist for specific contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the negative outcome and its undesirability are clearly indicated. Avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms such as "it would be a shame" or "it would be unfortunate".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it would be a shame

This alternative conveys a similar sense of regret or disappointment but is more commonly used.

that would be a shame

A slightly less formal version of "it would be a shame", suitable for more casual contexts.

it would be regrettable

This phrase is a more formal alternative, emphasizing the undesirable nature of the potential outcome.

it would be unfortunate

Similar in meaning, this alternative focuses on the bad luck or negative consequences of an event.

it would be disappointing

This alternative emphasizes the feeling of letdown or dissatisfaction that would arise.

it's a lost opportunity

This focuses on the aspect of missing out on something positive.

it would be a loss

This highlights the negative impact or deprivation that would result.

it's a crying shame

This idiom expresses a stronger sense of injustice or regret.

it's a matter of regret

This alternative frames the potential outcome as something that would cause lasting sorrow.

it's too bad

A simpler and more informal way to express regret about a potential outcome.

FAQs

What does "it would be a pity" mean?

The phrase "it would be a pity" expresses a sentiment of mild regret or disappointment about a potential negative outcome. It suggests that something desirable might not happen or that something undesirable might occur.

How can I use "it would be a pity" in a sentence?

You can use "it would be a pity" to express concern about a potential negative outcome. For example, "It would be a pity to miss such a great opportunity" or "It would be a pity if it rained on our parade".

What can I say instead of "it would be a pity"?

You can use alternatives like "it would be a shame", "it would be unfortunate", or "it would be regrettable" depending on the context.

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

"It would be a pity" is generally considered to be neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "it would be regrettable" may be more appropriate in certain situations.