a difficult ordeal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult ordeal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a challenging or trying experience that someone has gone through. Example: "After facing a difficult ordeal during the surgery, she was relieved to finally be on the road to recovery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

What do they need to do to be able to navigate this very difficult path in which the therapies themselves might be very onerous; how do we enhance the individual's will to be able to survive a difficult ordeal?

HuffPost

But from my perspective, I still think that the support that we have out there in the industries that are affected by EPA, they would prefer that we move aggressively along both fronts, appropriations and authorization, even if there may be some temporary delay for them -- because they generally feel that it's such a difficult ordeal to get a permit, anyway".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Making a decision may be a tiring, difficult ordeal, but once you make up your mind, something miraculous happens.

The Guardian

"It has been a very difficult ordeal for him and his family for the past 14 months.

The Guardian

Learning how not to massacre it with your carving knife is a more difficult ordeal.

Huffington Post

"Just to get the service installed has been an unusual, difficult ordeal for many people in terms of waiting times, not being able to get connected, trying unsuccessfully to get technical support," Mason said.

Los Angeles Times

"After a long and difficult ordeal, I am elated to be on my way back to my home and my family," the statement quoted Ms. Esfandiari as saying.

The New York Times

"To suffer the loss of a loved one is the most difficult ordeal to cope with, and when you add to that the horror of possibly getting upended from your home and whisked away overseas, the last year has been doubly devastating for this young family".

The New York Times

"His ability to keep the jury together through that very difficult ordeal, and complete the trial in an efficient manner, was one of the most remarkable things I've seen," Mr. Gravante said.

The New York Times

Prem said they were now together in "a place of safety and they're doing very well considering the difficult ordeal they've gone through".

The Guardian

"We are also grateful to those who have helped us throughout this difficult ordeal".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a difficult ordeal", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific challenges and hardships involved, providing sufficient detail to convey the gravity of the experience to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a difficult ordeal" when a simpler, more direct description would suffice. Overusing emotionally charged language can diminish its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult ordeal" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" modifies the noun "ordeal". It describes a specific type of experience characterized by hardship and adversity. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a difficult ordeal" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English, primarily found in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples of its usage. While the phrase is not overly common, it effectively conveys a challenging and trying experience. When using the expression, consider alternatives to prevent overuse and ensure that the context provides sufficient detail. Overall, it is a valuable option to describe hardship and adversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trying experience

Replaces "difficult ordeal" with more general terms for hardship.

a tough time

Uses simpler language to convey the same sense of hardship.

a challenging situation

Focuses on the problematic nature of the circumstances.

a painful experience

Emphasizes the emotional distress caused by the ordeal.

a traumatic event

Highlights the potential for long-lasting psychological impact.

a harrowing time

Conveys a sense of extreme distress and suffering.

a severe hardship

Emphasizes the severity and difficulty of the situation.

a period of suffering

Focuses on the sustained nature of the difficult experience.

a distressing situation

Highlights the anxiety and worry caused by the event.

a tough row to hoe

An idiomatic expression indicating a difficult task or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a difficult ordeal" in a sentence?

"A difficult ordeal" is used to describe a particularly challenging or trying experience. For example: "After facing "a difficult ordeal" during the surgery, she was relieved to finally be on the road to recovery."

What are some alternatives to "a difficult ordeal"?

You can use alternatives like "a trying experience", "a tough time", or "a challenging situation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a difficult ordeal"?

Use "a difficult ordeal" when you want to emphasize the hardship and challenge of an experience. It's suitable when the situation involves significant stress, pain, or adversity.

What is the difference between "a difficult ordeal" and "a challenge"?

While both terms refer to something not easy, "a difficult ordeal" suggests a more severe and prolonged period of hardship than "a challenge", which can be overcome with effort and skill.