stinging statement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stinging statement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a remark that is sharp, hurtful, or critical in nature. Example: "Her stinging statement about his performance left him feeling embarrassed and defensive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The quick-witted and sharp-tongued Mr. Frank hit back with his own stinging statement.

The New York Times

With that stinging statement, the bitter political battle between the county's top law enforcers that this trial has promised to showcase was under way in State Supreme Court here.

The New York Times

Updated at 6.26pm BST 5.39pm BST New York based Human Rights Watch have delivered a stinging statement on the verdict.

The Guardian - Music

The lone dissenter, Steven T. Walther, issued a stinging statement noting that the commission could have complied with the courts by removing the limits on contributions by individuals to 527's, not the contributions of unions or corporations.

The New York Times

A California man accused of insider trading is fighting back with his own batch of allegations and insults, issuing a stinging statement late Tuesday that called the Securities and Exchange Commission's lawyers "bumbling" and their case against him "riddled with omissions, distortions and inaccuracies".

The New York Times

This is him from today's #wato audioboo.fm/boos/1009528-u… October 16, 2012 Updated at 2.40pm BST 1.35pm BST Babar Ahmad's family: The family of Babar Ahmad, who was deported to the US two weeks ago to face terrorism charges, has issued a stinging statement in response to the dramatic decision to save Gary McKinnon from being sent for trial.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The most superficially repellent — the seemingly heartless Max, as well as Suzanna's tart-tongued mother, Susan (a terrifically astringent Kelly Bishop) — have a way of cutting through cant with stinging statements of common sense that give them a kind of moral authority.

The New York Times

In a flood of stinging statements immediately after the announcement of charges against the aide, I. Lewis Libby Jr., leading Democrats quickly moved beyond the details of the indictment to the broader assertion that White House officials had ignored the law in mounting a furtive campaign to blunt criticism of President Bush's case for war.

The New York Times

But Garang's second-in-command and successor, Salva Kiir, was wary and never forgot Machar's betrayal and stinging statements.

Vice

Before Mr. Ramrattan was sentenced on Wednesday, Ms. Sumasar delivered a stinging victim impact statement, noting that he showed no remorse and was so intent on revenge that he would have stopped at nothing to destroy her.

The New York Times

Still, that statement stung me and I felt even more desperate to fit in.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stinging statement" when you want to emphasize the impactful and often negative reaction a statement provokes. Consider the audience and context to ensure the phrase aligns with your intended tone.

Common error

Avoid using "stinging statement" in contexts that require neutral or objective language. It carries a strong negative connotation and may introduce bias where it's not intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stinging statement" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "stinging" modifies the noun "statement". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate in written English, suggesting its proper grammatical standing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stinging statement" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe remarks characterized by their sharp, critical, and often negative impact. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate for written English. It frequently appears in News & Media contexts and possesses a neutral register, making it suitable for various forms of public discourse. While the phrase is not exceptionally common, its correct usage can effectively convey strong disapproval or critique. Alternative phrases such as "scathing criticism" or "bitter remark" can be employed to achieve a similar effect, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scathing criticism

Highlights the severely critical nature of the statement.

sharp condemnation

Highlights the severity of the disapproval and criticism.

harsh rebuke

Focuses on the strong disapproval and reprimand conveyed.

damning indictment

Emphasizes the severe condemnation expressed in the statement.

bitter remark

Emphasizes the negative and resentful tone of the statement.

forceful denunciation

Highlights the strong and public condemnation of the statement.

vehement disapproval

Focuses on the intensity of the disagreement and rejection.

acerbic comment

Emphasizes the sharp and biting quality of the statement.

pointed critique

Highlights the direct and focused nature of the criticism.

incisive remark

Focuses on the clear and sharp quality of the statement.

FAQs

What does "stinging statement" mean?

A "stinging statement" is a remark or declaration that is sharp, critical, and causes emotional pain or offense. It's a forceful expression of disapproval or condemnation.

What are some alternatives to "stinging statement"?

You can use alternatives such as "scathing criticism", "bitter remark", or "harsh rebuke" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How to use "stinging statement" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "The politician issued a "stinging statement" in response to the allegations."

What is the difference between a "stinging statement" and a regular statement?

A regular statement is a neutral declaration of facts or opinions. A "stinging statement", in contrast, is deliberately forceful and designed to inflict emotional discomfort or deliver a sharp critique.