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.

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and friends at this distressing time."

From BBC • May 29, 2026

"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

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

“That’s a bit vague. I’m sure you can be more specific. What could this ‘friend’s’ father have mentioned that would’ve been so distressing to Mr. Rivers, he’d no longer feel up to hiking?”

From "Dear Martin" by Nic Stone