sad to inform

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sad to inform" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express regret or sorrow when delivering bad news or unfavorable information. Example: "I am sad to inform you that the event has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

What they lack in vocal talent this year I am sad to inform you they do not make up for in notoriety.

The Guardian

Hello, It makes me very sad to inform you all that, come the new year, we will be winding down PlayNice.ly.ly

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is my sad duty to inform Donald Trump that his hair is not a feminist issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

For today it is my sad duty to inform you that the ballerina pump is dead.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is my sad duty to inform you all that Terry Sue Patt who played Benny Green has passed away.

Independent

"It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away," the statement read.

The Guardian - Sport

It is my sad duty to inform you that if that's what you're holding out for, then you're probably going to be even further deflated, as this here final has all the ingredients of Ein Kracker.

The Guardian - Sport

Meanwhile, it's my sad duty to inform you that when you see your ex, neither teary-eyed pleading nor sloshing Diet Dr. Pepper in his face will do you much good or make you feel any better.

The New York Times

"It is my sad duty to inform you that a short time ago Phillip Hughes passed away," said Brukner.

BBC

It's my sad duty to inform you that our birdy in Duluth just msged me to say that the verdict is in on the RIAA vs. Jammie Thomas trial.

TechCrunch

A radio broadcast interrupted the broadcasting schedule, with the announcer reading, "The Press Secretary's Office of the Presidency of the Nation fulfills its very sad duty to inform the people of the Republic that at 20 25 hours Mrs. Eva Perón, Spiritual Leader of the Nation, died".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sad to inform", ensure the context aligns with conveying genuinely unfortunate or disappointing news. Overuse can diminish its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "sad to inform" in situations that are only mildly disappointing. It's best reserved for more serious or significant matters to maintain its sincerity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sad to inform" functions as an introductory expression used to preface bad news or unfortunate information. As Ludwig AI states, it conveys a sense of regret or sorrow in delivering the news.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Tech

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sad to inform" is a phrase used to introduce disappointing or unfortunate news, conveying a sense of regret. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriate use. While relatively infrequent, as demonstrated by the limited examples, it is most commonly found in news and media contexts. Alternatives such as "regret to announce" or "sorry to say" can be used depending on the specific tone and context. Using this phrase sparingly and appropriately will ensure its intended impact is maintained.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regret to announce

Emphasizes formal regret in delivering news.

sorry to say

Highlights personal sorrow in sharing information.

it pains me to report

Stresses the emotional distress of conveying the news.

I must sadly report

Adds emphasis to the sadness felt when reporting.

it grieves me to tell you

Conveys deep sorrow when informing someone.

with regret, I must inform you

Formal and direct, emphasizing regret.

unfortunately, I have to say

Highlights the unfortunate nature of the information.

it's with a heavy heart that I announce

Emphasizes deep sadness and emotional burden.

I'm saddened to announce

Simple and direct expression of sadness.

I am sorry to break the news

Focuses on delivering bad news with an apology.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "sad to inform"?

Use "sad to inform" when conveying genuinely disappointing or unfortunate news, indicating that the information is likely to cause sorrow or regret.

What are some alternatives to "sad to inform"?

You can use alternatives such as "regret to announce", "sorry to say", or "it pains me to report" depending on the level of formality and emotion you wish to convey.

How does "sad to inform" differ from "sorry to inform"?

"Sad to inform" emphasizes the speaker's feeling of sadness, while "sorry to inform" focuses more on expressing regret or apology for having to deliver the news.

Is "sad to inform" formal or informal?

"Sad to inform" is generally considered to be neutral to formal. While not overly stiff, it carries a weight of seriousness that makes it unsuitable for extremely casual contexts.