we are distraught

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are distraught" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a state of deep emotional distress or anguish, often in response to a troubling situation. Example: "After hearing the news of the tragedy, we are distraught and struggling to cope with the loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

We are distraught".

The Guardian - Business

John nods: "We talk to our kids, 'We are distraught that you are taking your lives.' More than 30 deaths so far.

The Guardian

"We are distraught over the loss of Scout Schultz," the groups wrote on a Facebook page for the vigil.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But we were distraught.

The New York Times - Health

"We were distraught, we were so disappointed.

The Guardian

"It's a pensive song, and we were distraught," Moran's father, Andrew, told me.

The New Yorker

So we were distraught — 'Why are you killing us?' " I asked if Zeb thought he would ever be able to come to the U.S. "Sir, if you look at all my phone calls, I had told my grandfather over and over that I want to come to America," he said.

The New Yorker

"They beat us fair and square, but we weren't outplayed and we were distraught to get beaten and lose our chance of getting a medal.

BBC

"We're distraught with the lack of solutions that were being put forward," LoCascio said.

Huffington Post

We knew what had happened to us was tragic, but once we heard from Kathmandu, notifying us about the devastation that had occurred across Nepal, we were distraught to learn about the thousands dead and the millions displaced from their homes.

Huffington Post

"We're distraught right now," Ms. Reid said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are distraught" to express deep emotional distress, particularly in formal statements or when representing a group's collective feelings. Ensure the context aligns with the seriousness of the emotion conveyed.

Common error

Avoid using "we are distraught" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its intensity can sound melodramatic or insincere if the situation doesn't warrant such a strong emotional response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are distraught" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing a state of emotional distress experienced by a group. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and readily usable in written English. Examples show it conveys deep anguish in response to difficult situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are distraught" is a grammatically sound phrase used to articulate a profound state of emotional distress experienced by a group. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to convey strong negative feelings and elicit empathy. While powerful, it's crucial to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in informal settings. For nuanced expressions, consider alternatives like "we are devastated" or "we are heartbroken".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are devastated

Replaces "distraught" with a synonym that conveys a sense of being overwhelmed by shock or grief.

we are heartbroken

Uses a more figurative term to describe deep sorrow or emotional pain.

we are grief-stricken

Emphasizes the intensity and overwhelming nature of the grief experienced.

we are in anguish

Focuses on the mental or physical suffering caused by extreme distress.

we are filled with despair

Highlights the loss of hope and the feeling of being trapped in a negative situation.

we are deeply saddened

Offers a more formal and moderate expression of sorrow.

we are overcome with grief

Stresses the feeling of being overpowered by sorrow.

we are shattered

Uses a metaphor to describe being broken or destroyed emotionally.

we are crushed

Implies a feeling of being heavily burdened and defeated by disappointment.

we are deeply troubled

Expresses concern and worry, suggesting a state of unease and anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "we are distraught" in a sentence?

"We are distraught" is used to express deep distress or grief as a collective group. For example, "After hearing the news of the factory closure, "we are distraught" about the job losses in our community."

What are some alternatives to saying "we are distraught"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "we are devastated", "we are heartbroken", or "we are deeply saddened" to express varying degrees of sorrow.

Is it appropriate to use "we are distraught" in a business email?

Yes, it can be appropriate in a business email if the situation warrants a strong expression of grief or concern. For instance, if addressing clients after a significant service failure or a tragic event affecting the company, saying "we are distraught" can convey sincerity. However, use it judiciously to maintain professionalism.

What's the difference between "we are distraught" and "we are disappointed"?

"We are distraught" indicates a much stronger emotional reaction than "we are disappointed". Distraught implies a state of extreme distress or mental conflict, while disappointed suggests a feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction that is generally less intense.