a hard thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hard thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or situation that is difficult to accomplish or deal with. Example: "Learning a new language can be a hard thing, but with practice, it becomes easier."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a hard thing".

The New York Times

Culture is a hard thing to change.

The New York Times

"It's a hard thing to explain….

The New Yorker

"Captivity is a hard thing," he said.

The New York Times

It's a hard thing to learn.

The New York Times

"That's a hard thing to find".

The New York Times

It's a hard thing to do.

The New York Times

This is a hard thing.

The New York Times

"It's a hard thing to wrestle with".

The New Yorker

That's not a hard thing to know.

The New York Times - Science

AGR: It's a hard thing to do.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a hard thing", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it the effort required, the complexity, or the emotional toll? Choose synonyms or related phrases that more precisely reflect the nature of the difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a hard thing" as a generic description without further detail. Instead of simply stating something is "a hard thing", specify why it is difficult to provide more clarity and impact. For example, instead of "Forgiveness is a hard thing", try "Forgiveness is hard because it requires letting go of anger and resentment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hard thing" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as being difficult, challenging, or troublesome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a hard thing" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote something difficult or challenging. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correct and frequent usage across various sources, primarily in news and media contexts, makes it a versatile phrase for describing tasks, situations, or concepts that present significant obstacles. While readily understood, it's advisable to consider more specific language to enhance clarity and impact in writing, especially by specifying why something is "a hard thing".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult task

Replaces "thing" with a more specific noun, emphasizing the action or work involved.

a challenging situation

Focuses on the circumstances or scenario presenting difficulty.

a tough proposition

Uses a more formal word for situation, suggesting something that requires serious consideration.

a demanding endeavor

Highlights the effort and commitment required, suitable for more ambitious undertakings.

a complex matter

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the difficulty.

a formidable challenge

Implies a significant obstacle that requires considerable strength and skill to overcome.

no easy feat

Underlines that the task is certainly not simple or straightforward.

an uphill battle

Suggests a continuous struggle against unfavorable conditions.

a tricky business

Describes something delicate and requiring careful handling.

a Herculean task

Emphasizes the immense difficulty, likening it to the labors of Hercules.

FAQs

How can I use "a hard thing" in a sentence?

You can use "a hard thing" to describe a task, situation, or concept that is difficult to understand, accomplish, or accept. For example, "Letting go of the past is "a hard thing" to do".

What can I say instead of "a hard thing"?

Alternatives to "a hard thing" include "a difficult task", "a challenging situation", or "a tough proposition", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a hard thing to do"?

Yes, "a hard thing to do" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It simply extends the basic phrase to specify that the difficulty lies in performing an action.

What's the difference between "a hard thing" and "a difficult thing"?

While "a hard thing" and "a difficult thing" are very similar, "hard" often implies effort and resilience, while "difficult" can emphasize complexity or mental challenge. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.