we are appalled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are appalled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong disapproval or shock regarding a situation or action. Example: "After hearing about the recent events, we are appalled by the lack of accountability shown by the authorities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We are appalled but we are also amused.

The Guardian - Opinion

We are appalled, angered and saddened to be powerless.

The New York Times

"We are appalled by the conduct of police officers involved".

The Guardian

Church in Seattle, said, "We are appalled by this tragedy".

The New York Times

"It is just simple retribution, and we are appalled by it," he said.

The New York Times

"We are appalled at the leniency of the punishment Townshend has received," he said.

The New York Times

We are appalled that the game was interrupted in this manner.

The Guardian - Sport

Page A22 SO FAR OVER THE LINE We are appalled by a new video Madonna is showing on her tour.

The New York Times

"We are appalled by this violence," said Carl Vallee, a spokesman for the federal prime minister, Stephen Harper.

The Guardian

"We are appalled and horrified at this major incident during passenger traffic hours which could have very easily resulted in disaster," he said.

The New York Times

If genuine, we are appalled by the brutal murder of an innocent American journalist and we express our deepest condolences to his family and friends".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are appalled" when you want to express a strong, immediate reaction of shock and disapproval towards something, particularly in formal statements or when representing a group's collective sentiment.

Common error

Avoid using "we are appalled" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a significant weight and can sound overly dramatic if used inappropriately. Consider using milder expressions like "we're surprised" or "we're disappointed" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are appalled" functions as an expressive statement, conveying a strong emotional reaction of shock, disgust, or disapproval. As supported by Ludwig AI, it's a declaration of a negative sentiment towards a particular event, action, or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are appalled" is a powerful expression used to convey a strong sense of shock, disgust, and disapproval. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. It's crucial to reserve it for situations where the intensity of feeling warrants such a strong statement, avoiding overuse in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "we are horrified" or "we are outraged" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ultimately, understanding the context and impact of this phrase ensures its effective use in expressing strong sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are horrified

Emphasizes a feeling of intense fear and shock, more strongly than "appalled".

we are outraged

Stresses anger and indignation, highlighting a sense of injustice.

we are shocked

Highlights surprise and disbelief, focusing on the initial impact of something negative.

we are dismayed

Indicates disappointment and discouragement, a milder form of shock.

we are disturbed

Highlights a feeling of unease and anxiety, less intense than "appalled".

we are disgusted

Emphasizes a strong feeling of revulsion and aversion.

we are sickened

Focuses on a physical feeling of unease and revulsion.

we condemn

Offers a formal declaration of strong disapproval.

we disapprove

Expresses a more general and less intense feeling of disapproval.

we find unacceptable

Indicates a formal rejection of something based on principles or standards.

FAQs

What does "we are appalled" mean?

The phrase "we are appalled" expresses a strong feeling of shock, disgust, and disapproval towards something. It indicates a deep sense of offense or outrage.

When is it appropriate to use "we are appalled"?

It's appropriate to use "we are appalled" in formal settings, official statements, or when representing a collective sentiment of strong disapproval. Avoid using it in casual conversations where a milder expression would be more suitable.

What can I say instead of "we are appalled"?

You can use alternatives like "we are horrified", "we are outraged", or "we are dismayed" depending on the context and the specific emotion you want to convey.

Is "we are appalled" formal or informal?

"We are appalled" is generally considered a formal expression. It is more common in written statements, official communications, and news reports than in everyday conversation. In informal settings, phrases like "we're shocked" or "we can't believe it" might be more appropriate.