less upsetting for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less upsetting for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or action that causes less distress or discomfort to someone. Example: "The new policy is designed to be less upsetting for employees during the transition period."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The decision by a jury of nine whites and three blacks was no less upsetting for many Americans.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Public TV programs, newspapers, or news magazines specifically designed for kids can be less sensational and less upsetting ways of getting information to kids.

WikiHow

These were less upsetting than those who were returning to formlessness, whose fists seemed rotted by leprosy.

The New Yorker

When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.

Huffington Post

Its main advantage is that it is far less upsetting to patients than combinations containing nitrogen mustard.

British Journal of Cancer

See if you can avoid re-experiencing the situation, or, if it is inevitable, make the experience less upsetting.

WikiHow

This will make it less confusing or upsetting for all involved when someone dies.

WikiHow

"This is upsetting for him".

The New York Times

It was upsetting for us all.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was very upsetting for our daughter.

The Guardian

Both episodes were very upsetting for them.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less upsetting for" when you want to emphasize the reduction of negative emotional impact on a specific person or group. It's particularly useful when discussing sensitive topics or changes that might cause concern.

Common error

While "less upsetting for" is generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "less detrimental to" or "more conducive to" in academic or professional writing to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less upsetting for" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun by describing it as causing a reduced level of distress or emotional upset. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less upsetting for" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe actions or situations that minimize emotional distress. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in various contexts, particularly in news, wiki content, and scientific articles. For alternative phrasings, consider options like "less distressing for" or "easier on". When writing, be mindful of the context and choose the alternative that best fits the desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

less disturbing to

This alternative emphasizes minimizing disruption or unease.

less distressing for

This focuses specifically on reducing emotional or mental anguish.

easier on

A more informal way to say something is less harsh or unpleasant.

more tolerable for

Suggests something is more bearable or acceptable.

less painful for

Highlights the reduction of suffering or discomfort, whether physical or emotional.

more gentle on

Suggests a softer, kinder approach that avoids causing upset.

not as irritating to

Focuses on reducing annoyance or frustration.

a better experience for

Shifts the focus to creating a more positive and pleasant encounter.

less traumatic for

Highlights minimizing severe emotional shock or distress.

more soothing to

Emphasizes providing comfort and calm, reducing anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "less upsetting for" in a sentence?

You can use "less upsetting for" to describe a situation or action that minimizes distress. For example, "The new policy is designed to be "less upsetting for" employees during the transition period."

What are some alternatives to "less upsetting for"?

Consider using phrases like "less distressing for", "easier on", or "more tolerable for" as alternatives to "less upsetting for", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "less upsetting for"?

Yes, "less upsetting for" is grammatically correct and commonly used. The word "less" correctly modifies the adjective "upsetting" to indicate a reduced degree of emotional distress. The addition of "for" specifies the recipient of the reduced distress.

What's the difference between "less upsetting for" and "not upsetting to"?

"Less upsetting for" implies a reduction in the level of distress caused. "Not upsetting to", on the other hand, implies that something causes no distress at all. The first is relative, the second is absolute.