a tough case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough case" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation or problem that is difficult to resolve or understand, often in contexts like law, medicine, or personal dilemmas. Example: "The detective was faced with a tough case that had stumped the entire department for months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Syria is, I admit, a tough case.

The New York Times

"It was a tough case," he said.

The New Yorker

A tough case, but I'm on it.

The New Yorker

"It's a tough case," said Mr. Robertson, 58.

The New York Times - Science

Mr. Barrett is something of a tough case himself.

The New York Times

"Obviously the case was a tough case, and it was a tough case because of the complicated relationship between pimps and prostituted women".

The New York Times

Her word against Strauss-Kahn's began to look like a tough case to make.

The New York Times

The later is a tough case, but the best example is torture.

The Guardian - Opinion

Beckett has appealed the asylum claim once more, "but it's a tough case," he told me.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

My father was a tougher case.

The New Yorker

Hockey, which falls somewhere in between, is a tougher case.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tough case", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the situation difficult. Provide specific reasons or examples to enhance understanding.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "a tough case" without providing details. Instead of just stating something is "a tough case", explain the specific challenges or complexities involved to give the reader a clearer picture.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a tough case" is to act as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject, object, or complement in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a tough case" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a situation or problem that is difficult or challenging. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used and accepted in various contexts. Primarily found in News & Media, it is a versatile phrase applicable across different domains, though precision might be needed in more formal settings. When using "a tough case", ensure to provide context to specify the challenges involved. Alternatives such as "a difficult situation" or "a challenging problem" can be used for variety, but the original phrase remains a strong and clear choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult situation

Replaces 'case' with 'situation', emphasizing the general circumstances.

a challenging problem

Substitutes 'case' with 'problem', highlighting the problematic nature.

a complex issue

Uses 'complex issue' instead of 'tough case', focusing on the intricate nature of the situation.

a thorny matter

Replaces 'tough' and 'case' with more figurative language, suggesting a delicate problem.

a demanding task

Shifts the focus to the effort required, using 'demanding task'.

a perplexing dilemma

Emphasizes the confusing aspect with 'perplexing dilemma'.

a grueling ordeal

Highlights the severity and unpleasantness with 'grueling ordeal'.

a knotty question

Uses 'knotty question' to illustrate the intricacy and difficulty in resolving the matter.

a sticky wicket

An idiomatic expression emphasizing the precarious and uncomfortable nature of the situation.

a headache

Informal term, "a headache", referring to something annoying or difficult to deal with.

FAQs

What does "a tough case" mean?

The phrase "a tough case" refers to a situation, problem, or matter that is difficult to deal with, solve, or understand. It implies significant challenges or complexities are involved.

How can I use "a tough case" in a sentence?

You can use "a tough case" in a sentence like this: "The detective admitted it was "a difficult situation" and that he was facing "a challenging problem"."

What are some alternatives to saying "a tough case"?

Some alternatives to "a tough case" include "a difficult situation", "a challenging problem", or "a complex issue", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a tough case" in formal writing?

Yes, "a tough case" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when discussing legal, medical, or other complex matters. However, consider using more specific or descriptive language if greater precision is needed.