seriously amiss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seriously amiss" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is significantly wrong or not as it should be. Example: "After reviewing the report, it was clear that something was seriously amiss with the data presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

President Trump says that is evidence of something seriously amiss.

The Washington Post

Even if this presents an exaggerated picture, it suggests something seriously amiss.

The Economist

Something is seriously amiss in the business of developing and hiring CEOs.

Harvard Business Review

"So I know something was seriously amiss in that first week," Naren says.

The Guardian

But despite the project's mysterious marketing campaign and its esteemed dramatis personae, something was seriously amiss.

The Guardian - Music

"When a handful of yachts become ocean liners while the rest remain lowly canoes, something is seriously amiss".

The New York Times

Something was seriously amiss if Castro, as Rhobert was known, was not there to join in the act of remembrance.

Independent

Finally, he realized that something was seriously amiss, and got in one of the last cabs to leave.

The New Yorker

Something is seriously amiss when "experts" identifying the century's greatest journalism overlook coverage of science and technology.

MIT Technology Review

To Sanni it was obvious that something was seriously amiss – that this was evidence that had been deleted.

The Guardian

But in the following days, there was no sign from the Prince camp that anything was seriously amiss.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seriously amiss" to convey a sense of significant concern or irregularity, especially when describing situations that deviate from established norms or expectations.

Common error

While "seriously amiss" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in very casual or informal settings where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seriously amiss" functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the adjective "amiss". It is used to describe a situation or condition that is significantly wrong or out of order. As Ludwig AI indicates, it correctly and effectively signals a notable problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seriously amiss" is a commonly used phrase that indicates something is significantly wrong or out of order. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and versatile, appearing most frequently in news and media contexts. While it is generally appropriate for formal writing, overusing it in casual settings should be avoided. Related phrases include "terribly wrong" and "severely flawed", offering similar but slightly different nuances. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "seriously amiss" to convey concern and highlight significant problems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Something's gone badly wrong

This alternative implies a severe problem or mistake has occurred.

Something is terribly wrong

This alternative emphasizes the severity of the problem.

Something is severely flawed

This alternative focuses on inherent defects or shortcomings.

Something is far from right

This alternative suggests a deviation from what is correct or acceptable.

Something is deeply troubled

This alternative suggests a more profound and concerning issue.

Something is not quite right

This alternative is less intense, suggesting a subtle problem.

There's a major problem

This alternative is straightforward and direct.

Something is critically deficient

This alternative points to a serious lack or inadequacy.

Something is seriously defective

This alternative emphasizes a fault in design or construction.

Something is fundamentally unsound

This alternative suggests a basic weakness or instability.

FAQs

How can I use "seriously amiss" in a sentence?

You can use "seriously amiss" to indicate that something is significantly wrong or not as it should be. For example: "After reviewing the financial reports, it was clear that something was "seriously amiss"."

What phrases can I use instead of "seriously amiss"?

Alternatives to "seriously amiss" include phrases like "terribly wrong", "severely flawed", or "far from right", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "seriously amiss" and "not quite right"?

"Seriously amiss" suggests a significant problem or deviation, while "not quite right" implies a more subtle issue that may not be immediately obvious.

Is "seriously amiss" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "seriously amiss" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in contexts where you need to express concern about a significant irregularity or problem. However, ensure that the tone of your writing aligns with the gravity of the situation.