a tough example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an example that is difficult to understand, follow, or deal with in a particular context. Example: "The teacher provided a tough example to challenge the students' problem-solving skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Opinion

We must set a tough, uncompromising example.

BBC

A tough query, for example, is broken down into equal parallel bits, and each processor is assigned a piece of the query.

Forbes

If there is a reason you're having a tough time, for example bullying, abuse at home or in a relationship or poverty, speak up about it.

WikiHow

The governor takes pride in a tough approach which, for example, makes sure that drug offenders get jail rather than treatment.

The Economist

This is popular in other state schools, but a Wellington academy staff source says: "It is easy to have a policy which takes a tough stance on, for example, a child who swears at a teacher.

The Guardian

For example, a tough girl could be named Lacey, or a nerdy kid could be named Brock.

WikiHow

It's a tough call, but in this example, as in the others, this unschooled ear sides with Devlin.

The New Yorker

For example, in a tough neighborhood in the United States, we have a facility in those neighborhoods, so we can assemble to do anything that needs to be done.

The New York Times

France, for example, implemented a tough crackdown on digital media piracy under former President Nicolas Sarkozy, including the threat of disconnecting repeat offenders from the Internet.

The New York Times

Another interesting point is that even when people support an idea (many minorities take a tough stance on immigration for example), finding out it is a Tory policy puts them off.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tough example" when you want to emphasize the complexity or demanding nature of a situation used for illustration, not just its uniqueness.

Common error

Avoid using "a tough example" when describing a straightforward or easily understandable situation. Reserve it for instances that genuinely present complexity or significant challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tough example" functions as a noun phrase, where "tough" modifies "example". It serves to introduce a specific instance or case that is challenging, complex, or difficult to understand. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough example" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to introduce challenging or complex illustrations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. It functions as a noun phrase and its communicative purpose is to emphasize the demanding nature of a particular instance. Predominantly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, it's essential to ensure the example indeed merits the descriptor "tough" to avoid misuse. Using alternatives like "a challenging illustration" or "a difficult case study" can offer nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging illustration

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding or executing the example.

a difficult case study

Specifically refers to an example used for analysis that presents significant complexities.

a demanding instance

Highlights the rigorousness or complexity involved in the particular situation.

a problematic demonstration

Suggests the example has inherent issues or complications that make it difficult.

a complex situation

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the example scenario.

a rigorous exercise

Indicates the example requires thorough effort and precision to understand.

a thorny issue

Implies the example presents sensitive and challenging points to consider.

a convoluted illustration

Highlights the confusing and intricate nature of the presented example.

a tricky scenario

Emphasizes the delicate and potentially problematic nature of the situation.

an arduous task

Highlights the effort or laboriousness required.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tough example" to introduce a scenario that is complex or challenging to understand. For instance: "The professor used "a tough example" to illustrate the difficulties in quantum physics".

What are some alternatives to "a tough example"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a challenging illustration", "a difficult case study", or "a complex situation".

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

Yes, "a tough example" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing complex subjects. However, ensure that the example you provide genuinely warrants the descriptor "tough".

What makes "a tough example" different from a simple example?

A tough example involves complexities, difficulties, or challenges that require deeper analysis or understanding, whereas a simple example is straightforward and easy to grasp.