a big nuisance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big nuisance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is very annoying or bothersome. Example: "The construction noise outside my window has become a big nuisance during my work hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"It's a big nuisance," he said of the scandal, which has him raising money not only for a re-election drive but for a legal defense fund.

The New York Times

Though the letters had been a big nuisance, resulting in the closure of all congressional office buildings and the House of Representatives, some of the cases of infection which had been detected had produced little more than treatable skin sores.But the recent developments have rekindled anxieties.

The Economist

That huge cable is a big nuisance.

TechCrunch

"It's a big nuisance and causes delays for other customers.

BBC

"They just saw it as a big nuisance, and understandably so".

BBC

This has lead to a big nuisance with regards to ground water pollution, infestation by rodents, spread of disease and, not to mention, the obvious odour issues.

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The menu is relatively lean, but it is augmented by a long list of seasonal specials that are recited (always a nuisance) without prices (an even bigger nuisance; diners on a budget would do well to ask).

The New York Times

But, immediately upon their marriage, he ceased trying to win her heart and please her and became a big, detached, nuisance-slob.

Huffington Post

On a tablecloth in inkhe re-creates the scene — a topographyof little volcanic disturbancesthat kept Tyrannosaurus rexand other big nuisances in check.And then there was a turning point,he says, a matter of vegetationand scarcity and greed.

The New Yorker

On a tablecloth in inkhe re-creates the scene — a topographyof little volcanic disturbancesthat kept _Tyrannosaurus rex_and other big nuisances in check.And then there was a turning point,he says, a matter of vegetationand scarcity and greed.

The New Yorker

As much as ice-covered roads and plowed-in driveways can be big nuisances, don't forget the excitement and beauty that the first big snowfall brings.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a big nuisance", consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the level of annoyance or trouble caused. If the situation is only mildly irritating, a less emphatic phrase might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "a big nuisance" for minor inconveniences. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact when describing genuinely problematic situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big nuisance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object. It identifies something as significantly annoying or troublesome. As Ludwig AI shows, it is commonly used to describe various sources of irritation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big nuisance" is a commonly used phrase to describe something that is significantly annoying or troublesome. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral to informal, it's essential to consider the audience and context to ensure appropriateness, opting for more formal alternatives like "a major inconvenience" in professional settings. Avoid overusing the phrase for minor issues to maintain its impact and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major inconvenience

Focuses on the troublesome aspect of the situation, emphasizing the difficulty it causes.

a considerable annoyance

Highlights the level of irritation caused, suggesting it's more than just a minor issue.

a significant bother

Emphasizes the disruption and trouble caused by the thing being described.

a real headache

Uses a more informal idiom to convey the frustrating and troublesome nature of the issue.

a persistent problem

Highlights the ongoing nature of the nuisance, emphasizing its continuous presence.

a major disruption

Focuses on the interruption and disturbance caused by the issue.

an unwelcome hassle

Emphasizes the unwanted and troublesome nature of the situation.

a source of irritation

Directly points out the origin of annoyance and frustration.

a constant aggravation

Highlights the continuous and worsening nature of the problem.

a thorn in one's side

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey a persistent and irritating problem.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a big nuisance"?

You can use alternatives like "a major inconvenience", "a considerable annoyance", or "a significant bother" depending on the context.

How can I use "a big nuisance" in a sentence?

You can use "a big nuisance" to describe something that causes significant annoyance or trouble. For example, "The constant construction noise is a big nuisance during my work hours."

Is "a big nuisance" formal or informal?

"A big nuisance" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a major inconvenience" or "a significant disruption".

What's the difference between "a big nuisance" and "a minor inconvenience"?

"A big nuisance" implies a substantial level of annoyance or trouble, while "a minor inconvenience" refers to a slight and easily manageable problem.