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.

She recalled a distressing incident during a school open day where Hannah was nearly served food containing milk.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 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

Asked about the case during a visit to East Sussex on Monday, the prime minister said: "I think it's a really distressing case. I think it's distressing for everybody to see, to hear about."

From BBC • May 26, 2026

NHS South East London ICB said Mehta's was a "longstanding and complex case", and that the board recognised "how difficult and distressing a prolonged hospital stay can be for Mr Mehta and his family".

From BBC • May 19, 2026

“I regret, Sir, having to give you such distressing news.”

From "Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers" by Deborah Heiligman