we are horrified

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are horrified" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong feeling of shock or disgust in response to a situation or event. Example: "After hearing the news about the tragedy, we are horrified by the loss of innocent lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We are horrified, and we think most readers, textual purists or not, will be horrified too.

The New York Times

"We are horrified by what we are seeing," the surgeon said.

The New York Times

As a community, we are horrified by Jerry Sandusky's actions — and our thoughts are constantly with his victims.

The New York Times

We are horrified by the death of Gabriel M. Zimmerman and the wounding of two other staff members.

The New York Times

"We are horrified by the BBC's green-lighting of the use of the word 'pikey' by the Top Gear presenters.

Independent

We are horrified by the humanitarian catastrophe and would rejoice in the downfall of a monstrous regime.

The New York Times

The rector of Paris's Grand Mosque added his voice, saying, according to the Times, "We are horrified.

The New Yorker

"We are horrified at the new federal policy," said Ann Clemency Kohler, deputy commissioner of human services in New Jersey.

The New York Times

We are horrified at the mismanagement and lies that characterize all recent Republican administrations and many Republican members of Congress.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"We were horrified".

The Economist

Wake up!" We were horrified.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are horrified", ensure that the context clearly explains what is causing the horror. Be specific to enhance the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "we are horrified" for minor inconveniences or disagreements. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving severe moral or ethical violations, tragedies, or shocking events to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are horrified" primarily functions as an expression of strong negative emotion or moral outrage. It typically serves to convey a sense of shock, disgust, or dismay in response to a deeply disturbing event or situation. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in news reports and statements reacting to tragedies, injustices, and ethical violations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are horrified" is a powerful phrase used to express strong negative emotions like shock, disgust, or moral outrage, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media contexts. While it effectively conveys deep dismay, it should be reserved for appropriately severe situations to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "we are appalled" or "we are shocked" can be used in contexts where the intensity of horror is lessened. Remember to be specific about what is causing the horror to maximize the phrase's effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are appalled

Replaces "horrified" with a synonym implying strong disapproval or disgust, slightly more formal.

we are shocked

Indicates surprise and dismay, focusing more on the unexpected nature of the event.

we are dismayed

Conveys disappointment and concern, suggesting a milder level of shock.

we are disgusted

Emphasizes a feeling of revulsion or strong dislike.

we are outraged

Highlights strong anger and indignation.

we are sickened

Expresses a feeling of moral or emotional revulsion.

we find it appalling

Shifts the focus to the judgment of the situation as extremely bad.

we cannot believe it

Expresses disbelief and shock, often used in response to unexpected news.

we are taken aback

Indicates surprise and mild shock, suggesting a momentary pause or hesitation.

we are disturbed

Conveys a sense of unease and discomfort.

FAQs

How to use "we are horrified" in a sentence?

Use "we are horrified" to express a strong negative reaction to something shocking or appalling. For example, "We are horrified by the senseless act of violence".

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

You can use alternatives like "we are appalled", "we are shocked", or "we are dismayed" depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate when expressing deep shock, disgust, or moral outrage at a particularly disturbing or tragic event. Ensure the situation warrants such a strong reaction.

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

"We are horrified" expresses a much stronger emotion than "we are disappointed". Horror implies shock, disgust, or moral outrage, whereas disappointment suggests a milder feeling of sadness or dissatisfaction.