a testing time

USAGE SUMMARY

"a testing time" is a correct phrase and is commonly used in written English.
It means a difficult or challenging period in one's life or in a particular situation. Example: The new CEO faced a testing time as he tried to turn around the company's financial losses. Another example: The students had a testing time preparing for their final exams.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Despite their differences, they displayed admirable solidarity during such a testing time.

The Guardian

The week before Wimbledon: a testing time on the injury-prone, north London veterans' circuit.

The Guardian

This is a testing time for the world and its people".

The Guardian

Of course, a baby's arrival is bound to be a testing time.

The Guardian

It's a testing time, but luckily Angel has found some vintage vinyl in the attic.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Adolescence can be a testing time, especially when it lasts for about 20 years.

The New York Times

But the GOP repeal effort never seems to die, so this week remains a testing time.

The Washington Post

Prince Salman takes on his new role at a testing time for the kingdom.

The New York Times

If this is a testing time, then some have passed with flying colors.

The New York Times

This will be a testing time for Mr. Obama and Mr. Rowhani.

The New York Times

"The past fortnight has been a testing time for the chapter and for me personally," Knowles said in a statement.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a testing time", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It implies a challenge that tests one's abilities or resilience. Use it when you want to emphasize the difficulty and the potential for growth or failure.

Common error

Avoid using "a testing time" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "difficult period", "challenging phase", or "trying ordeal" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a testing time" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It describes a period characterized by challenges, difficulties, or trials. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a testing time" is a commonly used phrase to describe a difficult or challenging period. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. The phrase appears most often in News & Media, but it's also seen in Science and Formal & Business contexts, indicating a neutral register. Alternative phrases include "difficult period" or "challenging phase". When writing, be mindful of overuse and consider the specific nuance you want to convey. This phrase effectively highlights the need for resilience and strength during adverse situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult period

Focuses on the difficulty experienced during the time.

a challenging phase

Emphasizes the challenges faced during that time.

a trying ordeal

Highlights the stressful and unpleasant nature of the experience.

a tough stretch

Indicates a period that requires resilience and endurance.

a critical juncture

Stresses the importance and potential consequences of the situation.

a moment of truth

Highlights a decisive point where true character or abilities are revealed.

a period of adversity

Focuses on the unfavorable conditions present during the time.

a season of hardship

Implies a prolonged period of difficulty and suffering.

a spell of tribulation

Suggests a time filled with trials and suffering.

a crossroads

Indicates a turning point or a crucial decision-making moment.

FAQs

How can I use "a testing time" in a sentence?

You can use "a testing time" to describe a period of difficulty or challenge, such as "The company faced "a testing time" during the economic recession".

What is a good alternative to "a testing time"?

Alternatives to "a testing time" include "difficult period", "challenging phase", or "trying ordeal", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "a testing time" formal or informal?

"A testing time" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

What does it mean to say someone is going through "a testing time"?

To say someone is going through "a testing time" means they are experiencing a period of significant difficulty, challenges, or trials that require resilience and strength to overcome.