out of sorts

USAGE SUMMARY

"out of sorts" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to describe a feeling of being uncomfortable, unwell, or out of balance. Example sentence: I've been feeling out of sorts all day; I think I need to take a break.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

But when she finally had a "coming out" of sorts, her grandmother replied with a story.

The New Yorker

I'm just out of sorts.

Independent

Everyone was out of sorts.

The New York Times

Simms sounded out of sorts.

The New York Times - Sports

She was tired, drained, out of sorts.

The New Yorker

A lady, out of sorts with Fate,.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

The players have looked tired and dispirited and out-of-sorts.

The New Yorker

Taylor kicked an out-of-sorts Gloucester into a seventh-minute lead with a simple penalty.

BBC

They now sit in sixth place, three places behind the out-of-sorts French team.

BBC

• The campaign is a coming-out of sorts.

The New York Times

Indeed, a bail-out of sorts is already underway at IPB.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "out of sorts" to describe a temporary state of being unwell or irritable, often without a specific diagnosed cause. It implies a mild and transient condition.

Common error

Avoid using "out of sorts" to describe severe or chronic medical conditions. This phrase is best suited for minor, temporary feelings of discomfort or unease. For serious ailments, use more specific and descriptive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of sorts" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to describe a temporary state of discomfort, illness, or irritability. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly used in written English. The examples provided by Ludwig show its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "out of sorts" is a common and correct adjective phrase used to describe a temporary state of being unwell, uncomfortable, or irritable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, though it should be reserved for minor and temporary conditions. Alternatives such as "feeling unwell" or "not oneself" can be used, but "out of sorts" specifically encompasses both physical and emotional unease. When communicating a temporary feeling of being 'off', "out of sorts" is a reliable and recognized choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling unwell

Focuses specifically on the physical aspect of not feeling well.

under the weather

A common idiom for feeling slightly ill or not at one's best.

not oneself

Highlights a change in one's usual demeanor or state.

a bit off

A more general way of saying something is not quite right.

feeling poorly

Similar to 'feeling unwell' but can also suggest a more emotional distress.

not up to par

Indicates a decline in performance or general well-being.

slightly ill

Directly refers to a mild state of sickness.

not in good form

Suggests a temporary decline in one's usual condition or performance.

off colour

Implies a change in appearance, often suggesting illness.

not feeling like myself

Emphasizes a disconnect from one's normal state of being.

FAQs

How can I use "out of sorts" in a sentence?

You can say, "I've been feeling "out of sorts" all day and can't seem to focus" or "She seemed "out of sorts" after the long journey".

What's a less common way to say "out of sorts"?

While "out of sorts" is already fairly common, you could use phrases like "not oneself" or "a bit off" to convey a similar meaning, although they might not be perfectly interchangeable in every context.

Which is correct, "out of sort" or "out of sorts"?

"Out of sorts" is the correct and commonly used form. "Out of sort" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "feeling unwell" and "out of sorts"?

"Out of sorts" can imply both physical and emotional unease, while "feeling unwell" typically refers more directly to physical health. "Out of sorts" might also suggest irritability or being in a bad mood.