a stiff challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stiff challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a difficult or demanding task or situation that requires significant effort to overcome. Example: "The upcoming exam presents a stiff challenge for all the students, as they must master a wide range of complex topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A stiff challenge!

The Guardian - Sport

That could prove a stiff challenge.

The New York Times

Making a functioning test a reality was a stiff challenge.

Stanford University

New Hampshire faced a stiff challenge from Northeastern on Friday.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, Mr. Samaras faces a stiff challenge in pushing those measures through his shaky coalition government.

The New York Times

A stiff challenge from Amazon.com and other online retailers has also eroded business.

The New York Times - Tech

The newcomers to the book-club business face a stiff challenge.

The New York Times

Mr. Parsons faces a stiff challenge in persuading the company's many constituent parts to pull together.

The New York Times

But The Artist could face a stiff challenge from The Descendants.

The Guardian - Film

Even among Amway's most seasoned agents, educating people about the company's methods is a stiff challenge.

The New York Times

Higginson, and whichever chief executive he chooses, face a stiff challenge, no question.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stiff challenge" to describe situations where overcoming an obstacle requires considerable effort and determination. It effectively conveys the intensity of the difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "a stiff challenge" excessively in casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in everyday contexts; opt for simpler phrases like "difficult" or "hard" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stiff challenge" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It describes something that requires considerable effort. This is consistent with the examples provided by Ludwig, where it is used to describe demanding tasks or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

9%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stiff challenge" is a noun phrase used to describe a situation or task that demands considerable effort and determination. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in news and academic contexts. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize the difficulty of an obstacle, but be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in overly informal settings. Remember that while "a stiff challenge" and "a tough challenge" are similar, the former often implies a higher degree of difficulty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tough test

Focuses more on the aspect of evaluation or proving oneself.

a formidable obstacle

Emphasizes the hindering nature and impressiveness of the challenge.

a demanding task

Highlights the effort and requirements involved in the challenge.

a difficult undertaking

Refers to something that needs to be done which is not easy.

a major hurdle

Implies something that must be overcome to progress.

a rigorous endeavor

Stresses the thoroughness and intensity required.

a substantial trial

Highlights the testing nature and potential difficulties.

a significant ordeal

Suggests a difficult or painful experience, often prolonged.

a herculean task

Emphasizes the immense difficulty, alluding to the labors of Hercules.

an uphill battle

Implies a constant struggle against opposing forces.

FAQs

How can I use "a stiff challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "a stiff challenge" to describe a difficult or demanding task. For example, "The final exam presents "a stiff challenge" for all students".

What are some alternatives to "a stiff challenge"?

Some alternatives include "a tough test", "a formidable obstacle", or "a demanding task", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a tough challenge" or "a stiff challenge"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a stiff challenge" often implies a more significant or formidable difficulty than "a tough challenge". The choice depends on the degree of difficulty you want to convey.

What makes something "a stiff challenge"?

Something becomes "a stiff challenge" when it requires substantial effort, skill, and determination to overcome. It typically involves complex problems or significant obstacles.