a trying period

USAGE SUMMARY

'a trying period' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a difficult or challenging time in someone's life. For example: "We all experienced a trying period during the pandemic, but I'm sure we can look back at it with fond memories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

It was a trying period.

The New Yorker

It has been a trying period for defenders of the drone.

The New York Times

Mr. Paul's heavy schedule of appearances in South Carolina has followed a trying period for him.

The New York Times

The closing of the investigation provides welcome news to Mr. Gibbons in a trying period.

The New York Times

In his second stint, he steered the company through a trying period of lawsuits, fund-raising and advocacy.

The New York Times - Arts

All in all, it's been a trying period for the boys from Brazil, more circus music than samba beat.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

When you've been through a difficult, trying period in your life, a part of you becomes "wounded".

Huffington Post

Lawn laughs softly at the memory, an illustration of how this lifelong fan, whose first match was a 3-0 win over Southport in 1964, is retaining perspective despite a desperately trying period for him, his wife, Yvonne, and their five children.

The Guardian - Sport

It can be a hugely trying period for students and parents.

The Guardian

He came to the White House after a distiguished career in the Senate This has been an asset in this trying period.

The New Yorker

Both Cashman and Showalter said Girardi's career as a player who won three World Series rings with the Yankees would help him during trying periods as a manager.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "a trying period", provide context to illustrate the specific difficulties faced. This adds depth and helps readers understand the impact of the challenges.

Common error

While "a trying period" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid using it repeatedly within a short piece of writing. Opt for synonyms like "a difficult time" or "a challenging phase" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trying period" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it commonly refers to a specific duration characterized by hardship or difficulty. The phrase is used to describe a challenging time that tests one's ability to cope and persevere.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

13%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a trying period" is a versatile phrase used to describe a challenging time that tests one's resilience. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While other related phrases like "a difficult time" or "a challenging phase" can be used interchangeably, "a trying period" specifically emphasizes the element of endurance and the test of one's abilities. Remember to provide context when using the phrase and avoid overuse to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult time

Emphasizes the hardship experienced.

a challenging phase

Focuses on the element of challenge and overcoming obstacles.

a tough spell

Implies a limited duration of difficulty.

a hard patch

Similar to "tough spell", suggesting a temporary setback.

a rough stretch

Indicates a continuous period of adversity.

an ordeal

Highlights the severity and unpleasantness of the experience.

a period of adversity

More formal and emphasizes the presence of unfavorable conditions.

a time of hardship

Emphasizes the suffering and difficulty involved.

a stressful interval

Highlights the stress and pressure experienced.

a testing phase

Focuses on the aspect of being tested or challenged.

FAQs

How can I use "a trying period" in a sentence?

"A trying period" is typically used to describe a difficult or challenging time in someone's life, such as: "The company experienced "a trying period" during the recession."

What are some alternatives to saying "a trying period"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a difficult time", "a challenging phase", or "a tough spell".

Is "a trying period" formal or informal?

"A trying period" is considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase suitable for use in both professional and casual contexts.

What makes "a trying period" different from "a difficult time"?

While both phrases describe a challenging situation, "a trying period" often implies a test of one's endurance and resilience, whereas "a difficult time" simply indicates hardship.