this distressing time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this distressing time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a difficult or troubling period in someone's life or in a broader context, such as during a crisis or challenging situation. Example: "We understand that this distressing time can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you in any way we can."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"We would like express our sympathy to the family at this distressing time.

The Guardian

We ask that the family are left undisturbed at this distressing time.

Independent

"RMT would request that all media respect the privacy of the friends and family of Bob Crow at this distressing time".

Independent

We are looking into the incident and working closely with his family at this distressing time". ArmorGroup, chaired by the former Conservative foreign secretary Malcolm Rifkind, is one of Britain's biggest private security firms.

The Guardian

I can tell you that the UK government will be willing to make a significant financial contribution towards the cost of rebuilding". Scotland's education secretary, Michael Russell, said: "My thoughts are with the staff and students of Glasgow School of Art at this distressing time.

The Guardian

He should never have been arrested in the first place, and must be released immediately and unconditionally so that he is free to be with his family at this distressing time," said Ann Harrison, the deputy director of Amnesty International's Middle East and North Africa Programme.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"The couple ask that their privacy be respected and that they be left alone at this deeply distressing time.

Independent

"My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends and colleagues of both men at this extremely distressing time".

The Guardian

Scotland's first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said: "Our thoughts continue to be with Pauline Cafferkey and her family during this extremely distressing time.

The Guardian

As she had done when David died a decade previously, Hill wrote a book about it to help her cope, Family, a nonfiction account of this "hugely distressing" time.

The Guardian - Books

Ch Insp Natalie Moloney said: "Our thoughts are with all those involved and particularly with Mr Sutton's family, to whom we have been offering support at this very distressing time".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this distressing time", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific event or situation is causing the distress. Providing context enhances clarity and empathy.

Common error

While appropriate in news and general communication, avoid overusing "this distressing time" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language that specifies the nature of the distress.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this distressing time" functions as a noun phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier, specifying the time frame during which an action or state occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

11%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this distressing time" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that conveys empathy and acknowledges hardship. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and commonly used. While most frequent in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various professional and general contexts. When using the phrase, consider the specific event causing the distress to provide clarity and ensure appropriateness for the intended audience. Alternatives like ""this difficult period"" or ""this challenging moment"" can offer more nuanced expressions depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this difficult period

Replaces "distressing" with "difficult", focusing on the challenging nature of the time.

this challenging moment

Substitutes "distressing" with "challenging" and "time" with "moment", highlighting the demanding aspect of the situation.

this trying time

Uses "trying" instead of "distressing", emphasizing the testing or stressful nature of the period.

this sorrowful period

Replaces "distressing" with "sorrowful", emphasizing the sadness associated with the time.

this painful experience

Shifts the focus to the emotional impact, using "painful" to describe the experience.

this period of hardship

Emphasizes the difficulties and struggles associated with the time.

this time of adversity

Highlights the unfavorable conditions and challenges present during the time.

this unfortunate situation

Focuses on the negative circumstances, framing the time as "unfortunate".

this tragic moment

Emphasizes the severity and sadness of the situation, using "tragic".

these trying circumstances

Highlights the difficult conditions that define "this distressing time".

FAQs

How can I use "this distressing time" in a sentence?

You can use "this distressing time" to express sympathy or acknowledge difficulty. For example, "We understand that "this distressing time" can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you".

What are some alternatives to saying "this distressing time"?

Alternatives include "this difficult period", "this challenging moment", or "this trying time", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "this distressing time"?

It's appropriate to use "this distressing time" when referring to a period marked by significant emotional or psychological suffering, such as after a loss, during a crisis, or in situations causing widespread anxiety.

Is "this distressing time" formal or informal?

The phrase "this distressing time" is generally considered neutral, suitable for both news reports and heartfelt communication. It may be less appropriate in formal academic writing, where more specific language might be preferred.