a considerable strain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a considerable strain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant level of stress or pressure experienced in various contexts, such as work, relationships, or physical activities. Example: "The project placed a considerable strain on the team's resources and morale."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

There was a considerable strain on one at this time.

The Guardian

The growth of more than 100,000 new households each year placed a considerable strain on existing housing conditions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The MS Society's chief executive, Michelle Mitchell says: "Being misdiagnosed or experiencing symptoms that can't be explained can put a considerable strain on people's emotions and health.

The Guardian - Opinion

The summons of the Thai chargé d'affaires to the UK, Nadhavathna Krishnamra, reveals that the police investigation has placed a considerable strain on relations between the UK and Thailand following the murders on 15 September.

The Guardian

Her behavior placed a considerable strain on Nelle, who eventually, according to Shields, "wiped the slate clean of the conflict between herself and her mother" by killing off Mrs. Atticus Finch before "To Kill a Mockingbird" even begins.

The New Yorker

According to the Red Cross, the recommendation would reduce the pool of American blood donors by more than 10%, putting a considerable strain on a system already prone to shortages.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

There is no doubt that in the early years this imposed a very considerable strain on their relationship.

The Guardian - Books

This is a time of considerable strain for Wilson.

The Guardian - Film

But the provision of such care remains a source of considerable strain on the District Nurses, 38% (n 157) reported "undue strain" in supporting the patient to die at home.

BMC Palliative Care

Lastly, while Greece has an economy under considerable strain today, it also has highly educated, innovative, and enterprising work force with the ability to reach into Europe and the United States to find capital, attract dealmakers, and revitalize the economy.

Huffington Post

Nick Bosanquet, professor of health policy at Imperial College, London, says that the vote is "a sign of the considerable strain that the NHS is under: the basic issue is how to make use of this very scarce resource of consultants' time".The consultants' ballot is a setback for the government's plan to modernise the NHS.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a considerable strain" to clearly and directly convey a significant burden or pressure is being experienced. This phrase is suitable for formal and informal writing, providing clarity and emphasis.

Common error

Avoid using "a considerable strain" when the situation involves minor inconvenience or slight pressure. Reserve this phrase for situations involving a significant and noticeable burden.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a considerable strain" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb such as "place", "put", or "cause". It describes something that imposes a significant burden or pressure, both in physical and abstract contexts. Ludwig AI validates this usage pattern.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

56%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a considerable strain" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a significant burden or pressure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various formal and neutral contexts, including news, scientific research, and business. While highly versatile, it is important to reserve the phrase for situations where the pressure is truly substantial. Alternatives such as "a significant burden" or "intense pressure" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considerable burden

Slightly different wording. Focuses on the weight or load imposed, emphasizing the impact on someone or something.

considerable pressure

Omits the article "a", slightly altering the grammatical structure.

a significant burden

Focuses on the weight or load imposed, emphasizing the impact on someone or something.

a heavy load

Highlights the onerous nature of the responsibility or pressure.

substantial pressure

Emphasizes the force or coercion being applied.

significant stress

Indicates the mental or emotional tension experienced.

intense pressure

Emphasizes the high level of coercion or urgency.

a major difficulty

Shifts the focus to the problematic aspect of the situation.

a significant demand

Highlights the high requirements or expectations imposed.

a noteworthy imposition

Focuses on the act of placing something burdensome upon another.

FAQs

How can I use "a considerable strain" in a sentence?

You can use "a considerable strain" to describe something that is causing significant pressure or difficulty. For example, "The project placed "a considerable strain" on our resources."

What phrases can I use instead of "a considerable strain"?

Alternatives include "a significant burden", "a heavy load", or "substantial pressure", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a considerable strain" or "considerable strain"?

While both are understandable, "a considerable strain" is grammatically correct and more commonly used. Omitting the article "a" is possible, but less frequent.

What's the difference between "a considerable strain" and "intense pressure"?

"A considerable strain" generally refers to a sustained burden or difficulty. "Intense pressure" suggests a more acute and immediate form of stress. The best choice depends on the specific situation.