such a tragedy

USAGE SUMMARY

"such a tragedy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to emphasise the magnitude or sadness of a situation. For example, "The city is still dealing with the aftermath of such a tragedy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A decade ago, Dr. Turchev says, such a tragedy would probably not have happened at all.

The New York Times

That is such a tragedy.

The New York Times

Is it such a tragedy?

The Guardian - Film

It was such a tragedy.

The Guardian - Sport

It's just such a tragedy".

The New York Times

His death was such a tragedy.

The Guardian - Sport

The whole thing was such a tragedy".

The New York Times

That is why it is such a tragedy.

The Economist

Such a tragedy at a time like Thanksgiving.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

People didn't know how to respond to such a tragedy.

Los Angeles Times

It is the second time such a tragedy has struck the same company.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a tragedy" to emphasize the emotional weight and significance of an event. It's particularly effective when discussing events that cause widespread suffering or loss.

Common error

Avoid using "such a tragedy" for minor inconveniences or setbacks. This phrase is most impactful when reserved for truly significant and devastating events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a tragedy" functions as an evaluative expression, used to emphasize the severe and unfortunate nature of an event. It's used to highlight the negative impact and emotional weight of the situation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a tragedy" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to underscore the severity of an unfortunate event. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys sorrow, empathy, or outrage, and encourages reflection. While its use spans multiple contexts, it's most frequently found in news and media, where it highlights significant losses or suffering. When using this phrase, remember to reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such a strong expression, avoiding its dilution in minor contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a misfortune

Replaces "tragedy" with a general term for bad luck or adverse event.

such a disaster

A more straightforward synonym for "tragedy", focusing on the negative outcome.

such a calamity

Substitutes "tragedy" with a word suggesting a more widespread or devastating disaster.

such a catastrophe

Emphasizes the disastrous nature of the event, similar to calamity but perhaps more sudden or unexpected.

such a devastating event

Emphasizes the destructive and emotionally damaging impact of the event.

such a grievous loss

Focuses on the sense of loss and sorrow associated with the tragedy.

such a heartbreak

Highlights the emotional pain and distress caused by the event.

such an unfortunate incident

Downplays the severity slightly by using "incident", but still conveys the negative nature.

such a shame

Expresses regret or disappointment about an unfortunate situation, often less severe than a tragedy.

such a pity

Similar to "such a shame", indicating sorrow or regret, but perhaps for a less serious event.

FAQs

What does "such a tragedy" mean?

The phrase "such a tragedy" is used to emphasize the magnitude and sorrow associated with a deeply unfortunate or devastating event. It conveys a sense of loss, suffering, and often widespread impact.

How can I use "such a tragedy" in a sentence?

You can use "such a tragedy" to describe a situation that has caused significant harm or loss. For example, "The earthquake was "such a tragedy" for the entire region".

What are some alternatives to "such a tragedy"?

Alternatives include "such a misfortune", "such a calamity", "such a catastrophe", "such a disaster" or "such a shame", depending on the severity and context.

When is it appropriate to use "such a tragedy"?

It's appropriate to use "such a tragedy" when referring to events that involve significant loss, suffering, or devastation. It should be reserved for serious situations and not used lightly for minor inconveniences.