a tough proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tough proposition" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something difficult, challenging, or requiring a great amount of effort. For example, "Getting into a top law school is a tough proposition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Under the circumstances, cutting costs is a tough proposition.

The New York Times

"That will be a tough proposition," Bertrand said.

Independent

The numbers make that look like a tough proposition.

The Guardian

Hitting in general has been a tough proposition for the Mariners.

The New York Times - Sports

That would be a tough proposition because of the teachers' union's considerable influence in Albany.

The New York Times

It was still a tough proposition and Bonington went first on the most dangerous section.

The Guardian

The Jets will want to run, too, but that's a tough proposition if the Steelers' defense is healthy.

The New York Times

True independent filmmaking has always been a tough proposition in the marketplace, let alone at the multiplex.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mammals were, literally, a tougher proposition.

The Guardian - Opinion

The author's next two tormentors are a tougher proposition.

The Economist

Mr Salmond may find the second act a tougher proposition.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a tough proposition" when you want to convey that something is not easily achieved and requires careful consideration and effort. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, lending a tone of seriousness and realism to the discussion.

Common error

While "a tough proposition" is grammatically sound, avoid overusing it in very casual settings. Simpler phrases like "difficult" or "challenging" may be more appropriate to maintain a natural conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a tough proposition" is to act as a noun phrase, often functioning as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig's AI confirms its usability and correctness. It characterizes a task, situation, or idea as being difficult or challenging.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tough proposition" is a commonly used phrase to describe something difficult or challenging. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and professional settings. When considering alternatives, phrases like ""a challenging endeavor"" or ""a difficult undertaking"" can offer similar meanings. While versatile, avoid overuse in highly casual conversations to maintain a natural tone. The phrase's frequency and presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscore its reliability and widespread acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging endeavor

Focuses on the element of challenge inherent in the task.

a difficult undertaking

Emphasizes the effort and labor required.

a formidable task

Highlights the potential to cause worry or fear.

a demanding job

Stresses the high requirements and effort needed.

an uphill battle

Implies a struggle against significant obstacles.

a Herculean effort

Emphasizes the immense strength and effort required.

a complex issue

Highlights the intricate and multifaceted nature of the challenge.

a thorny problem

Suggests a problem that is difficult to handle and may cause further issues.

a rigorous process

Emphasizes the strictness and thoroughness required.

a hard nut to crack

Indicates a problem that is particularly difficult to solve.

FAQs

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

"A tough proposition" is used to describe something that is challenging or difficult. For example, "Convincing the board to invest in this project is "a tough proposition".".

What phrases are similar to "a tough proposition"?

Alternatives include "a challenging endeavor", "a difficult undertaking", or "a formidable task", each conveying a similar sense of difficulty but with slightly different nuances.

Is "a tough proposition" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a tough proposition" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a challenging situation or task. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.

What makes something "a tough proposition"?

Something becomes "a tough proposition" when it requires significant effort, resources, or strategic planning to overcome inherent difficulties or obstacles. It suggests that success is not guaranteed and requires careful navigation.