on a tragic note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a tragic note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a sad or unfortunate aspect of a situation or story, often as a transition to a more serious topic. Example: "The event was filled with joy and celebration, but on a tragic note, we must remember those who are no longer with us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

She started a gallery, which opened on a tragic note.

The New Yorker

It ends on a tragic note, but they manage to avoid easy cynicism or fashionable despair.

The Guardian - Film

But the panegyric ends on a tragic note, as Hoxha reveals that Khruschev led the Soviet Union away from the Truth.

The Guardian - Books

To judge from yesterday's elections and Erdoğan's now-inevitable fall from grace, this film is bound to end on a tragic note.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"We find it devastating and most unfortunate that after having this world-famous star Aaliyah and her crew select the Bahamas as their choice location for her latest video, the project has climaxed on such a tragic note," the Jamaican minister of tourism, Tommy Turnquest, said.

The New York Times

Early on the tour struck a tragic note when Vasquez tour van was robbed and several pieces of equipment and personal items were taken.

Vice

Here, Lewis sounds a tragic note: the more civilized a people, the more vulnerable.

The New Yorker

The opening prayer to Diana, goddess of the hunt, strikes a tragic note.

The New York Times - Arts

There was, ironically, a tragic note to the Book of Mormon the night we saw it.

Huffington Post

But while "Dojoji" ends on a tragic female-revenge note, "mech[a] OUTPUT" concludes with a hokey duet.

The New York Times - Arts

Bonhoeffer's life, which was filled with drama and ended on an extraordinarily tragic note, lends itself to chronology, leading the director to move the documentary on a steady, evenhanded course.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a tragic note" to smoothly transition into a somber topic, providing a clear signal to your audience that the tone is shifting to address serious or unfortunate events. For example, when discussing achievements, use it to acknowledge losses or setbacks within the same context.

Common error

Avoid using "on a tragic note" in situations that are only mildly unfortunate or where a more subtle expression of sadness would be appropriate. Reserve it for genuinely serious or grievous events to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a tragic note" functions as an introductory phrase, typically used to signal a shift in tone or topic towards something sad or unfortunate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a tragic note" is a grammatically correct and usable introductory phrase in English. While categorized as rare in occurrence, it serves the distinct purpose of transitioning into a somber or unfortunate topic. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is primarily found in news and media contexts, signaling a shift toward serious or grievous events. When writing, it’s best to use it to set the stage for somber news while avoiding overuse in more lighthearted contexts. Alternatives such as "on a somber note" or "unfortunately" can provide similar nuanced effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a somber note

Changes the adjective to "somber", emphasizing seriousness and gravity.

on a mournful note

Uses "mournful" to emphasize a feeling of sorrow and lament.

with a heavy heart

Shifts the focus to the emotional state of the speaker or writer.

in a sad turn of events

Rephrases the sentiment to highlight the unfortunate change in circumstances.

on a depressing note

Substitutes "tragic" with "depressing", suggesting a lowering of spirits.

unfortunately

A simpler adverb that introduces an unfortunate fact.

in a heartbreaking manner

Focuses on the emotional impact of the situation, highlighting its capacity to cause grief.

with regret

Introduces the information with an expression of sorrow or disappointment.

sadly

A straightforward adverb expressing sadness.

to my dismay

Highlights the speaker's or writer's disappointment or distress.

FAQs

How can I use "on a tragic note" in a sentence?

Use "on a tragic note" to introduce a sad or unfortunate element in a discussion or narrative. For instance, you might say, "The celebration was a success, but "on a tragic note", we also remembered those who couldn't be with us."

What are some alternatives to "on a tragic note"?

Alternatives include "on a somber note", "with a heavy heart", or "unfortunately", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "on a tragic note" in formal writing?

Yes, "on a tragic note" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports or analytical pieces where you need to introduce a sad or unfortunate development. However, consider the overall tone and audience; sometimes, a more understated phrase might be preferable.

When should I avoid using the phrase "on a tragic note"?

Avoid using "on a tragic note" in overly casual or lighthearted contexts, as it can seem disproportionately serious. It's best reserved for situations where the gravity of the topic warrants such an introduction.