sobering realization

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sobering realization" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a moment of clarity or understanding that brings a serious or reflective perspective on a situation. Example: "After reviewing the data, I had a sobering realization about the impact of our decisions on the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Want a metaphorically sobering realization?

The New Yorker

In the subsequent 13 years, oncologists have come to the sobering realization these new drugs are not the holy grail after all.

The New York Times

Or a sobering realization that, nearly 35, he can't keep up with Paul and the five-star point guards cooking out west.

The New York Times

But it can also be much smaller — a quiet talk between a couple, a moment of sobering realization, even a date at a yogurt shop.

Los Angeles Times

In fact -- and I know this is a really sobering realization for us -- most people in the world don't really think about us or care about us.

Huffington Post

Most sobering realization this decade: The U.S. doesn't make squat anymore and no one has the vision of John F. Kennedy to jump start an innovation economy, green or otherwise, to turn the sinking ship of the U.S. of A. economy around.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"It's a sort of sober realization that the future isn't like the past," he added.

The New York Times

Long missing has been a sober realization that even if we get significant benefits from incarceration, that comes at a significant cost".

The New York Times

There is the even more sober realization that even after an agreement, there will continue to be radical and rejectionist elements who oppose reconciliation and try to sabotage the process.

The New York Times

The optimism about the uptick in returnees is checked by the sober realization that Darfur's sprawling displaced person camps — some virtual cities, with more than 100,000 people — will probably never totally disband.

The New York Times

On July 13, Richard J. H. Johnston filed a grim report from the battlefield on "the sober realization there that at best the United States troops face a long and costly campaign to drive the invaders from South Korea".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "sobering realization" with a 'that' clause specifying the nature of the realization.

Common error

Avoid using "sobering realization" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your language by incorporating synonyms or rephrasing to express the same idea in different ways.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sobering realization" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It highlights a moment of clarity that carries a serious or reflective tone. As shown by Ludwig, it typically introduces a clause explaining the nature of the realization.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sobering realization" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates a significant shift in understanding, often toward a more serious or realistic perspective. Ludwig AI confirms this. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it carries a neutral tone suitable for formal and informal communications. When using "sobering realization", ensure clarity by specifying the nature of the realization with a 'that' clause. While it's a valuable phrase, avoid overuse and consider synonyms like "grim awareness" or "harsh truth" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harsh truth

Directly conveys the difficult or painful nature of the realization.

grim awareness

Highlights the unpleasant or negative nature of the realization.

stark awareness

Emphasizes the clarity and undeniable nature of the realization.

disheartening understanding

Emphasizes the disappointment associated with the realization.

unsettling comprehension

Focuses on the disturbance or unease caused by the realization.

disillusioning insight

Stresses the loss of illusions or naive beliefs.

rude awakening

Implies a sudden and unpleasant realization.

awakening to reality

Suggests a transition from ignorance or delusion to a true understanding.

penetrating insight

Focuses on a deep and thorough understanding that changes one's view.

eye-opening experience

Describes the realization as transformative and enlightening.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sobering realization" in a sentence?

Begin by stating the context or situation, then introduce the phrase "sobering realization", followed by a 'that' clause explaining the specific understanding or awareness gained. For instance, "After reviewing the budget cuts, we came to the "sobering realization" that layoffs would be unavoidable".

What are some alternatives to "sobering realization"?

You can use alternatives like "grim awareness", "harsh truth", or "disheartening understanding" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "sobering realization" in formal writing?

Yes, "sobering realization" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing significant shifts in understanding or awareness of serious matters. It's often found in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.

What's the difference between "sobering realization" and "disappointing realization"?

"Sobering realization" implies a serious or reflective understanding, often related to negative or challenging circumstances. "Disappointing realization", on the other hand, focuses more on the feeling of letdown or dissatisfaction associated with the understanding.