things are heavy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things are heavy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or emotional state that feels burdensome or difficult to handle. Example: "After hearing the news, I realized that things are heavy for everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

You don't have that many years left, these things are heavy," she said pointing at the cameras.

The New York Times - Magazine

Gone are the days of needing to tote around a flash drive (because let's face it, those things are heavy), we're in the age of Web 2.0.

TechCrunch

When you do get to the actual furniture moving, get help, as most things are heavy.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

These things are heavy-duty and require no batteries.

TechCrunch

The first sounds we hear in Juliana F. May's "Commentary = not thing" are heavy footsteps.

The New York Times - Arts

I find that pretty amazing, as I would have thought all those things were heavier than air.

Huffington Post

The thing is heavy, about as big as a 13 month old baby.

TechCrunch

That thing was heavy.

Huffington Post

I've been working out, but this thing is heavy!" she said (via People).

Los Angeles Times

"This thing is heavy so it must be important, of course," said Kelly Rowland as she walked up to the podium to introduce Diplo, who added an electronic oomph to her sensual song titled "Motivation".

Los Angeles Times

Things that are heavy, bulky or fragile aren't good to try carrying around school in secret.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things are heavy" to describe situations that feel burdensome, either emotionally or practically. Consider whether a more specific description of what feels heavy would be more impactful.

Common error

While "things are heavy" is a valid expression, avoid using it too frequently in your writing. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your descriptions using synonyms or more specific language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things are heavy" primarily functions as a statement describing a situation or condition as burdensome or difficult. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show it used to convey emotional weight or practical challenges.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "things are heavy" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe burdensome or difficult situations, as validated by Ludwig AI. While most frequently found in news and media and leaning towards informal usage, it effectively conveys a sense of weightiness or seriousness. When using this phrase, writers should be mindful of the context and consider whether more specific or formal language might be more appropriate. Alternative phrases include "the situation is difficult" or "matters are serious".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the situation is difficult

Focuses on the challenging nature of the situation, omitting the physical weight metaphor.

matters are serious

Emphasizes the gravity of the situation, using "serious" instead of "heavy".

the climate is tense

Highlights the strained atmosphere, differing in the implication of psychological or emotional tension.

the pressure is on

Indicates heightened expectations and stress, shifting the focus to external demands.

circumstances are grim

Conveys a sense of hopelessness and severity, adding a layer of pessimism.

the atmosphere is oppressive

Highlights the restrictive and burdensome feeling of the environment.

the burden is great

Directly addresses the feeling of being burdened, removing the ambiguity of "things".

the stakes are high

Emphasizes the importance of the outcome, differing in the implication of potential consequences.

times are trying

Focuses on the challenging period, shifting the temporal aspect of the situation.

the heat is on

Implies increased scrutiny or pressure to perform, altering the source of the challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "things are heavy" in a sentence?

You can use "things are heavy" to describe a situation or emotional state that feels burdensome or difficult to handle. For example: "After the news, I realized that "things are heavy" for everyone involved."

What can I say instead of "things are heavy"?

You can use alternatives like "the situation is difficult", "matters are serious", or "the climate is tense" depending on the context.

Is "things are heavy" formal or informal?

"Things are heavy" leans toward the informal side but can be used in neutral contexts. More formal alternatives might be "the situation is challenging" or "the circumstances are grave".

Can "things are heavy" refer to physical weight?

While it typically refers to emotional or situational burdens, ""things are heavy"" can sometimes refer to physical weight, though this usage is less common. For example: "These "things are heavy"-duty and require no batteries."