a headache

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a headache' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that is causing one physical or mental stress or difficulties. For example: "Organizing the entire event was a headache for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Setup was a headache.

The New York Times - Tech

Never have a headache.

The New York Times - Magazine

I had a headache".

The New Yorker

I have a headache".

The New Yorker

"You get a headache".

The New York Times

What a headache.

The New Yorker

It'd be a headache.

The Guardian

It is a headache.

The Guardian - Business

You have a headache.

The New York Times - Health

"Ma has a headache".

The New Yorker

He had a headache.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a headache" to express that something is causing difficulty or annoyance.

Common error

Avoid using "a headache" too frequently in formal or professional writing. While understandable, it can sound unprofessional. Opt for more specific and nuanced vocabulary to convey the precise nature of the difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a headache" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct use to describe something causing difficulty or annoyance. Examples show it characterizing situations, tasks, or even people.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a headache" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something causing difficulty or annoyance. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across various contexts. While prevalent in news and media, it's essential to consider the formality of the setting. Related phrases like "a source of frustration" or "a major inconvenience" can offer more precise alternatives in formal writing. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse especially in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a source of frustration

This alternative shifts the focus to the emotional impact of the problem.

a major inconvenience

This phrase emphasizes the disruption and trouble caused by something.

a difficult situation

This is a more general term describing a challenging set of circumstances.

a tough problem

This alternative highlights the difficulty in resolving an issue.

an uphill battle

This phrase suggests a struggle against significant odds.

a thorny issue

This alternative emphasizes the complexity and sensitivity of a problem.

a painful experience

This phrase focuses on the unpleasantness and suffering associated with something.

a troublesome matter

This alternative suggests something that causes worry or difficulty.

a vexing question

This phrase highlights the puzzling and irritating nature of a problem.

a demanding task

This alternative emphasizes the effort and energy required to complete something.

FAQs

How can I use "a headache" in a sentence?

You can use "a headache" to describe something that causes annoyance, difficulty, or pain. For example, "Dealing with the bureaucracy was a real headache."

What are some alternatives to saying "a headache"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a source of frustration", "a major inconvenience", or "a difficult situation".

Is it appropriate to use "a headache" in formal writing?

While "a headache" is widely understood, it may be too informal for certain formal contexts. Consider using more precise language to convey the nature of the difficulty.

What's the difference between "a headache" and "a problem"?

"A problem" is a general term for any issue that needs to be resolved. "A headache" implies that the problem is causing annoyance, difficulty, or mental stress.