Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
undergoing distress
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "undergoing distress" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is experiencing emotional or physical pain or hardship. Example: "The patient was undergoing distress due to the severe pain from the injury."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
In order to design waste barriers using any type of concrete, the most effective intervention occurs at the time when it is needed during the life of the material and at the location undergoing distress.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Similarly, a higher rate of DNA mutation occurrence due to oxidative damage is found in rats undergoing psychological distress [ 109].
Science
In a consecutive series of 298 cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, distress, perceived social support and desire for supportive counselling were assessed using screening instruments.
Science
Table 4 summarizes the results of the post-hoc binary regression, which shows that compared to White women, Black women were more likely to undergo fetal distress (AOR: 2.60, 95% CI: 1.52, 4.45), as compared to all other indications.
Science
1 2 Studies utilising standardised measures of distress (eg, global measures of anxiety or depression symptoms) have demonstrated that 8 25% of individuals undergoing genetic testing experience distress, the level of which falls within the clinical ranges for depression and anxiety.
Science
Questions on ventilator settings involved regular settings for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and those for a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome undergoing invasive MV.
Science
Accordingly, recent EIT results suggest, tidal volume is more homogeneously distributed in patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrom undergoing pressure support ventilation [ 5].
Science
Knowledge on the use of argatroban in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) undergoing ECMO or pECLA is limited.
Science
Non-pharmacological interventions for reducing mental distress in patients undergoing dental procedures: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Introduction: The survival predictors and optimal mechanical ventilator (MV) settings in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are uncertain.
The survival predictors and optimal mechanical ventilator settings in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are uncertain.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing someone's emotional or psychological state, consider using "undergoing distress" to convey that they are actively experiencing hardship. This phrasing is particularly suitable in formal or clinical contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "undergoing distress" in casual conversation; it sounds overly formal. Opt for simpler terms like "stressed" or "upset" in informal settings.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "undergoing distress" functions as a gerund phrase, where "undergoing" acts as a verb in its -ing form functioning as a noun. Ludwig AI indicates this is acceptable in written English. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence or clause.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "undergoing distress" is a grammatically sound gerund phrase primarily used in formal and scientific contexts to describe the active experience of emotional, physical, or psychological suffering. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's acceptable in written English. While semantically similar to phrases like "experiencing suffering" or "enduring hardship", it carries a more formal tone. This makes it particularly suitable for clinical or academic settings but less appropriate for casual conversation. Its usage is relatively uncommon, mainly appearing in scientific literature and news reports.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
experiencing suffering
Replaces "undergoing" with "experiencing", focusing on the direct sensation of suffering.
enduring hardship
Emphasizes the aspect of tolerating or bearing difficult conditions.
facing adversity
Highlights the confrontation with challenging circumstances.
dealing with difficulty
Focuses on the active management of a challenging situation.
struggling through pain
Specifically emphasizes a difficult effort against pain.
in a state of anguish
Indicates a condition of extreme emotional distress.
subjected to torment
Highlights the state of being forced to experience severe suffering.
living through agony
Emphasizes the experience of intense physical or mental suffering over a period of time.
grappling with despair
Focuses on the struggle against a loss of hope.
contending with grief
Specifically refers to dealing with sorrow and mourning.
FAQs
How can I use "undergoing distress" in a sentence?
You can use "undergoing distress" to describe someone experiencing emotional, physical, or mental suffering. For example, "The patient was "undergoing distress" due to the severity of their injuries."
What are some alternatives to "undergoing distress"?
Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "experiencing suffering", "enduring hardship", or "facing adversity".
When is it appropriate to use "undergoing distress"?
"Undergoing distress" is suitable for formal and clinical settings when describing someone's experience of emotional or physical hardship. It is less appropriate for informal conversations.
What's the difference between "undergoing distress" and "feeling distressed"?
"Undergoing distress" suggests an active process of experiencing hardship, while "feeling distressed" simply indicates a state of emotional discomfort. "Undergoing distress" might be used to describe a prolonged or intense experience, whereas "feeling distressed" can describe a more temporary state.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested