distressing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It is a sad and distressing situation," police commander Masoud Mwinyi said, speaking to parents and crowds outside the school.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called the case "distressing" and said "there are questions about the sentence".

From BBC • May 27, 2026

He praised the "courage" of the victims but said he found the case "distressing as a politician" and "as a father".

From BBC • May 26, 2026

Dan used a horizontal bar lined with LED lights that kept my eyes dancing and darting as he prompted me to recall a distressing childhood memory.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 26, 2026

Dearest Celie, I meant to write you in time for Easter, but it was not a good time for me and I did not want to burden you with any distressing news.

From "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker