state of anguish

USAGE SUMMARY

"state of anguish" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a feeling of intense worry, sorrow, or distress. For example, "The victims' families are in a state of anguish as they wait for news of their relatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

He was referred to him in a state of anguish, which he credits the saint, an irascible chain-smoker, with ending.

The Economist

Even though the women had suspected being HIV infected from internal and external cues, a confirmed diagnosis threw them into a state of anguish prompted by the possibility of dying from a disease they "did not deserve".

Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care

Rather than commit to the original love pairings or to the amended ones, Mr. Albery brings down the curtain in a state of anguish and confusion.

The New York Times - Arts

"I'm in a state of anguish," he said, "and there's probably nothing you can do or say that's going to help me".

The Guardian - Books

Now she sees them voting for the cuts, but doing so in a state of anguish, insisting privately that they are uneasy but they must limit the number of times they revolt.

Independent

She is blaming herself, which is very typical behaviour, and she is terrified social services will take her child away – she is in a state of anguish about that.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The physical connection I have with making sound can be ecstatic, a welcome relief from more familiar states of anguish.

The New York Times

When the unease was too great, I tweeted out my nervousness and heard back from dozens of Peruvians in similar states of anguish all over the world.

The New Yorker

The main tool for this self-reporting is a simple scale from one to 10, often accompanied by cartoon faces in various states of anguish.

Vice

Mr. Jennings is right in saying that pain is humbling, "has no meaning" or redemptive features, and reduces the sufferer to a state of primal anguish.

The New York Times

"Ministers were immediately despatched to speak to the search and rescue authorities in the United States so there was absolutely no doubt at all in the minds of the decision-makers on the other side of the Atlantic what this Government felt on behalf of the families who, quite rightly, are in a state of terrible anguish.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "state of anguish" to describe a prolonged or intense period of emotional or mental suffering, especially when emphasizing the duration or persistence of the distress.

Common error

Avoid using "state of anguish" in situations where the distress is minor or temporary. Overusing such strong language can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state of anguish" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object. It describes a condition or situation characterized by intense suffering or distress. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "state of anguish" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe intense emotional or mental suffering. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase, typically used to convey the severity of distress experienced by an individual or group. While found in various contexts, it is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Science sources. When writing, use "state of anguish" to accurately portray profound and prolonged distress, avoiding its overuse in less serious situations to maintain its impact. Consider using synonyms like "moment of agony" or "emotional turmoil" to tailor your writing's tone to the specific context. In summary, understanding the nuances of "state of anguish" is crucial for effective and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moment of agony

Focuses on a specific, intense period of suffering, rather than a prolonged condition.

emotional turmoil

Implies a state of great emotional disturbance and confusion.

period of suffering

Emphasizes the experience of enduring pain or hardship over a length of time.

condition of distress

Highlights the troubled or strained circumstances a person is in.

time of torment

Suggests intense physical or mental suffering, often inflicted by an external source.

depths of despair

Refers to the lowest point of hopelessness and discouragement.

pangs of grief

Highlights the sharp, sudden feelings of sorrow and loss.

troubled state

A more general term for emotional or mental unease.

heartache

Focuses specifically on sorrow or distress caused by love or loss.

agitated condition

Focuses on a state of restlessness and anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "state of anguish" in a sentence?

You can use "state of anguish" to describe someone experiencing intense suffering. For example, "The families of the missing were in a "state of anguish" while waiting for news".

What phrases are similar to "state of anguish"?

Similar phrases include "moment of agony", "period of suffering", or "emotional turmoil". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "state of anguish" or "state of anxiety"?

"State of anguish" describes a deeper, more intense suffering than "state of anxiety". Use "state of anguish" when describing extreme emotional or mental pain, and "state of anxiety" for more general unease or worry.

Can "state of anguish" describe physical pain?

While "state of anguish" primarily describes emotional or mental suffering, it can be used to describe physical pain when the pain is overwhelming and deeply distressing, causing significant emotional distress as well.