this is very awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is very awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that feels uncomfortable or embarrassing for you or others involved. Example: "During the meeting, when no one knew how to respond to the unexpected question, I realized this is very awkward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Well, this is very awkward," Jacob said flatly.

The New Yorker

This is very awkward for Brexiters like David Davis, who want to renegotiate the Brexit deal (see 7.47am), but also for Labour, which is claiming that it could go back to Brussels and get a better deal too (see 10.27am).

The Guardian

This is very awkward for me".

Forbes

President-elect Trump, this is very awkward.

Huffington Post

or "Gee, this is very awkward.

WikiHow

She will be thinking this is very awkward and wishing she could get away!

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This method is very awkward, but it will prove that trigger pull is one of the most important elements in firing a gun.

WikiHow

It is very awkward, Mr. Krarup confided.

The New York Times

"He is very awkward and more of a counter-puncher.

Independent

It is very awkward to make concessions or compromises in public for fear of losing face or support.

The New York Times

"It is very awkward to mingle with someone without knowing who the other person's parents are, where they are from, etc".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is very awkward" to acknowledge an uncomfortable situation directly, allowing for open communication and a quicker resolution. For example, saying "This is very awkward, but we need to discuss the budget" can help address the elephant in the room.

Common error

Avoid using "this is very awkward" too frequently, as it can lose its impact and make you seem perpetually uncomfortable. Vary your language with alternatives like "this situation is delicate" or "I'm finding this uncomfortable".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is very awkward" functions as a declarative statement expressing a subjective assessment of a situation. It indicates that the speaker perceives the current circumstances as uncomfortable or embarrassing. Ludwig examples show its usage across various contexts to acknowledge tension or unease.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is very awkward" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for acknowledging discomfort or unease in a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a straightforward way to address an elephant in the room. While the frequency is rare, its usage is widespread across news media and general online content. Alternatives like "this situation is delicate" or "I'm finding this really awkward" can provide variety. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase to maintain its impact and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this feels incredibly uncomfortable

Emphasizes the feeling of discomfort more strongly.

this situation is rather embarrassing

Focuses on the potential for shame or humiliation in the situation.

i'm finding this really awkward

Shifts the perspective to a personal feeling of awkwardness.

this is a bit cringe-worthy

Uses a more informal and modern term to describe the awkwardness.

this is somewhat disconcerting

Indicates a feeling of unease or disturbance.

i'm not sure how to proceed here

Focuses on the uncertainty and difficulty caused by the awkwardness.

this has become quite uncomfortable

Highlights the escalation of discomfort.

this is a delicate situation

Emphasizes the need for careful handling due to the awkwardness.

things are getting a little weird

Uses a more casual term to describe the awkward atmosphere.

i wish i hadn't said that

Focuses on the regret that is caused by the awkwardness.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "this is very awkward" to sound more professional?

In a professional setting, consider using phrases like "this situation is delicate", "this is a sensitive matter", or "it presents a challenge" to maintain a respectful and formal tone.

What are some alternatives to "this is very awkward" for casual conversations?

For casual conversations, try alternatives like "this is so cringey", "things are getting weird", or simply "awkward" to convey the same sentiment in a more relaxed manner.

When is it appropriate to use "this is very awkward"?

"This is very awkward" is appropriate when you want to directly acknowledge an uncomfortable or embarrassing situation. It's best used when addressing the issue head-on can help to ease the tension.

Is "this is very awkward" the same as "that was awkward"?

While both phrases acknowledge awkwardness, "this is very awkward" is typically used to describe a present situation, whereas "that was awkward" refers to a past event. The former is proactive, the latter retrospective.