that was touching

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that was touching" is correct and usable in written English.
You might use it when someone has said or done something that is emotionally moving or that elicits strong feelings. For example: "Her speech at the graduation ceremony was so heartfelt – that was touching."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Still, Rushdie told the crowd, "One of the things that was touching for me, reading the book, was how much of Christopher I didn't know".

The New Yorker

On 65 minutes the support sang "Stand up if you love Joe Hart" and the Etihad Stadium rose to create a moment that was touching and one the under-pressure goalkeeper may never forget.

The Guardian - Sport

Kerry's gradual coming out as a lesbian was a highlight of the last few seasons, a slow-building transformation that was touching without being sappy, and far too idiosyncratic to serve as any kind of lesson.

The New York Times - Arts

The rest of the time, Zorn – dressed down in combat trousers and a red T-shirt – was either a guiding spirit somewhere in the wings; back onstage, dancing along and conducting the musicians with slashing hand gestures; or else offering encouragement that was touching to see – the percussionist Cyro Baptista even got his belly rubbed.

The Guardian

It was only after his marriage to Hadley Richardson, a St . Louisheiress, that he set off for Paris, arriving in late 1921 with a determination to become a great and modern writer that was touching in one who had received so little encouragement.

The New Yorker

Yeah, that was touching… And actually, I do agree.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Brown opened the scoring, tapping in an Eliot Richards cross that was touched on by McGleish.

BBC

Now Belda's earnings report has deflated the rally that was touched off by Bush's new economic stimulus package.

Forbes

Weldon prepared an ammonia and acetic acid solution that was touched to Koenig's sleeve, causing it to smoke.

Wikipedia

Trim tree branches that are touching a structure.

The Washington Post

Nor is it simply new twists on an old art that are touching a nerve.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that was touching" to express genuine emotional connection or empathy towards a situation or action you witnessed or experienced.

Common error

Avoid using "that was touching" sarcastically, as it can be misinterpreted. If sarcasm is intended, ensure the tone is clearly conveyed through context or other linguistic cues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that was touching" primarily functions as an expressive statement. It conveys a feeling of emotional impact or appreciation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples showing its role in expressing sentiments about events or actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that was touching" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a feeling of emotional appreciation or empathy. Ludwig AI analysis reveals it's most commonly found in news and media contexts, with a neutral register. While not overly formal, it should be used thoughtfully in professional settings. Consider alternatives like "that was moving" or "that was poignant" for varied emotional expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that was moving

Focuses more on the emotional impact, suggesting the event caused a shift in feeling.

that was heartening

Emphasizes the positive and encouraging aspect of the touching event.

that was poignant

Highlights the bittersweet or deeply affecting nature of the situation.

that was inspiring

Suggests the event motivated or uplifted, going beyond mere touching.

that was deeply felt

Indicates a strong emotional resonance, stressing the intensity of the feeling.

that was quite emotional

Directly states the presence of strong emotions without specifying the exact nature.

that resonated with me

Highlights a personal connection to the event, focusing on individual experience.

that struck a chord

Implies the event elicited a strong emotional response or recognition.

that was rather tender

Emphasizes the gentle and affectionate nature of the event.

that left an impression

Suggests the event was memorable and had a lasting effect.

FAQs

How can I use "that was touching" in a sentence?

Use "that was touching" to express a feeling of emotional appreciation or empathy for something witnessed or experienced. For example, "The reunion of the soldiers with their families was truly heartwarming; that was touching."

What's a more formal alternative to "that was touching"?

In more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "that was deeply moving", "that was profoundly affecting", or "that was exceptionally poignant" to convey a similar sentiment with greater gravitas.

How does "that was touching" differ from "that was moving"?

While both phrases convey an emotional impact, "that was touching" emphasizes a gentle, tender emotion, whereas "that was moving" suggests a stronger, perhaps more profound, emotional shift.

Is it appropriate to use "that was touching" in professional communication?

The appropriateness depends on the context. In professional communication, use it sparingly and only when expressing genuine appreciation or empathy is warranted and aligns with the company's culture. Otherwise, stick to more neutral language.