putting it gently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "putting it gently" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express something in a softer or more tactful manner, often to avoid offending someone. Example: "I don't want to hurt your feelings, so I'll be putting it gently when I say that your performance needs improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

That is putting it gently.

The Economist

There's no point in putting it gently: Mitt Romney had one of his worst polling days of the year on Wednesday.

The New York Times

Though Feith was putting it gently, this is a formulation stating that a change of regime might not be a bad thing for other countries in the region besides Iraq.

The New Yorker

"It was a teachable moment, and that's putting it gently," said Arias, an actor in his late 20s, who has cerebral palsy.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It was, to put it gently, unpopular.

The New York Times

Americans are, to put it gently, a self-absorbed people.

The New Yorker

To put it gently, that is a matter of interpretation.

The New Yorker

But ensemble playing was scrappy throughout, to put it gently.

The New York Times - Arts

And Warren's foreign-policy credentials are, to put it gently, modest.

The New Yorker

Ms. Jackson is, to put it gently, an actress of limited expression.

The New York Times

Still, to put it gently, Obama's public utterances haven't always helped him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "putting it gently"; it's suitable for situations where directness might be counterproductive.

Common error

Avoid using "putting it gently" in highly informal settings, as it can sound overly formal or sarcastic. Opt for more casual ways to soften your language.

Linguistic Context

"Putting it gently" functions as an idiomatic introductory phrase. It signals that the speaker or writer intends to soften the impact of what they are about to say. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to introduce an understatement or euphemism.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "putting it gently" is a phrase used to introduce a softened or understated version of a statement, often to avoid causing offense or to minimize the perceived severity of a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and carries a neutral to professional tone. While effective in softening potentially harsh truths, it should be used judiciously in informal settings. Alternative phrases, such as "to put it mildly" or "to say the least", can provide similar effects with slightly different nuances. It serves as a signal of the intention to be tactful, a valuable asset in various communication settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to put it mildly

Replaces 'gently' with 'mildly', indicating a more significant understatement.

to understate the matter

Directly implies representing something as less significant than it is.

to say the least

Similar in function, but can sometimes imply a stronger underlying sentiment.

to be diplomatic

Highlights the use of tact and consideration in expressing oneself.

if I may put it delicately

Adds a degree of formality and politeness to the understatement.

to temper the statement

Indicates a deliberate effort to reduce the intensity or harshness of a statement.

to couch it in polite terms

Emphasizes the act of using polite language to convey something potentially unpleasant.

to put a fine point on it

Indicates a more precise, though still gentle, way of expressing something.

to mince words

Suggests avoiding directness or bluntness in communication.

to soften the blow

Focuses on reducing the negative impact of the statement.

FAQs

How can I use "putting it gently" in a sentence?

You can use "putting it gently" to introduce an understatement or a softened version of a potentially harsh truth. For example, "Putting it gently, the project is behind schedule."

What does "putting it gently" mean?

"Putting it gently" means expressing something in a mild or understated way, often to avoid causing offense or to minimize the perceived severity of a situation.

Are there synonyms for "putting it gently"?

Yes, alternatives include "to put it mildly", "to say the least", or "if I may put it delicately". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How formal is the phrase "putting it gently"?

The phrase "putting it gently" is relatively neutral in formality. While not overly casual, it's not strictly formal either, making it suitable for a range of contexts where some degree of tact is desired.