wretched heart

USAGE SUMMARY

"wretched heart" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common phrase used to describe someone who is feeling sad, unhappy, or distressed. Example: After the breakup, Sarah's wretched heart was filled with longing and sorrow.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gerrard had the wretched heart-shattered air of a man who'd found out that the love of his life was shagging the neighbour and who was living out of bin bags on his mother's sofa.

Independent

East then discovered the wretched seven of hearts lurking among his diamonds.

The New York Times - Arts

"The novel ends on a positive note, with Doll's discharge from hospital and his optimism that 'the nations will get their houses in order again, even Germany, this beloved, this wretched Germany, this ailing heart of Europe will become well again'," says Williams.

The Guardian - Books

This was in spite of his stated opinion they year before that criticised expeditions into this "wretched country in the heart of Africa".

Wikipedia

Spiegel online has a series of photos (click on the "Fotostrecke" link at the foot of the page) capturing the German squad's post-match misery - with David Odonkor sobbing his heart out, and a wretched Lukas Podolski hiding under his jersey.

The Guardian - Sport

This unfortunate trend -- that it is not what you have to say but how artfully you say it -- lies at the heart of the generally wretched state of both the popular and the fine arts in America.

The New York Times

You wretched maid nevertheless have the nerve to blame others.

Lingua Sinica

This novel's heroine, a 19-year-old prostitute who plies her trade in Victorian London, confronts a wretched world armed with nothing more than wit, moxie and a good heart.

The New York Times - Books

The novel is at heart a love story, but one that is as warped and wretched as it is tender.

The Guardian - Books

He describes his father, known as the Butcher of Poland, as a man who knew Faust by heart -- "an educated German and at the same time a wretched criminal".

The New York Times - Arts

Hibs are on a wretched run of form, having won only one of their last 12 games, and a young, inexperienced Hearts team has proved itself capable of rising to the pressures and conflict of the derby occasion, winning at both Easter Road and Tynecastle earlier in the season.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "wretched heart", ensure the context clearly conveys a profound sense of sorrow, despair, or emotional distress. This phrase is most effective when describing a character's internal state or a situation marked by deep unhappiness.

Common error

Avoid using "wretched heart" in situations that do not warrant such strong emotional language. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for scenarios genuinely characterized by deep suffering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wretched heart" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying the noun "heart" with the adjective "wretched." It is typically used to depict a state of profound sorrow or emotional distress. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wretched heart" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe a state of deep sorrow or emotional suffering. Ludwig AI validates its usage in written English. While not as common as other similar phrases like "broken heart", it effectively conveys a profound sense of despair. Its use is most appropriate in formal or literary contexts, particularly in news and media, where a heightened emotional tone is desired. To avoid overuse, reserve the phrase for situations that genuinely warrant such strong emotional language. Consider alternatives such as "heavy heart" or "sorrowful heart" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broken heart

Emphasizes the emotional pain and distress caused by loss or disappointment, focusing on the heart as the seat of emotions.

heavy heart

Highlights the feeling of sadness and burden that weighs down one's spirit.

sorrowful heart

Directly indicates a heart filled with sorrow and grief.

grief-stricken heart

Intensifies the feeling of grief, suggesting a heart overwhelmed by loss.

despairing heart

Focuses on the hopelessness and lack of optimism within the heart.

anguished heart

Highlights the intense mental or physical suffering experienced by the heart.

aching heart

Emphasizes the constant pain and longing felt in the heart.

heart filled with woe

Expresses a heart burdened by deep sadness and misfortune.

miserable heart

Indicates a state of extreme unhappiness and discomfort within the heart.

heart in despair

Highlights the condition of being without hope and utterly discouraged.

FAQs

How can I use "wretched heart" in a sentence?

You can use "wretched heart" to describe someone experiencing intense sadness or emotional pain. For example, "After the devastating news, she wandered with a "wretched heart", unable to find solace."

What's the difference between "broken heart" and "wretched heart"?

"Broken heart" typically refers to romantic heartbreak, while "wretched heart" can describe a broader sense of deep sorrow or despair stemming from various causes, not just romantic loss. "Wretched heart" suggests a more profound and all-encompassing misery than a "broken heart".

Are there alternatives to "wretched heart" that convey a similar meaning?

Yes, you can use phrases like "heavy heart", "sorrowful heart", or "grief-stricken heart" to express similar feelings of sadness and distress. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "wretched heart" a common expression in modern English?

While not as common as "broken heart", "wretched heart" is a recognized and grammatically correct expression. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It tends to appear more in literary or formal contexts to emphasize a deep sense of suffering.