an ongoing nightmare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an ongoing nightmare" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or experience that is continuously distressing or problematic. Example: "The project has turned into an ongoing nightmare, with constant delays and miscommunications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It was an ongoing nightmare.

The New York Times

"It's an ongoing nightmare".

The New York Times

Packing was an ongoing nightmare.

The New York Times - Arts

It has not been invoked in Syria, where life has become such an ongoing nightmare that many hundreds of thousands are fleeing.

The Guardian - Opinion

The place is Exhibit A for lawyers, a how-not-to guide for homeowners, a business handbook for contractors and an ongoing nightmare for insurers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Japan was also left to digest the jihadist group's chilling threat to kill more Japanese in an ongoing "nightmare" for the country.Ordinary people wish the threat of violence would disappear as swiftly as it came.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Since the age of six or seven, I've had this ongoing nightmare that begins with a faceless man spinning in an empty room wearing a paisley suit.

Vice

VICE accepted that metric when deciding to track reports of mass shootings in 2016 as a means of drawing sustained attention to an ongoing national nightmare.

Vice

In the words of one of his St James Parkk predecessors who went on to look after England, Allardyce would love it were the Football Association to throw out a lifeline and rescue him from his ongoing nightmare on Tyneside.

The Guardian - Sport

Behind him, he leaves the ongoing nightmare of reconstructing Iraq, a project that is certainly behind schedule and over budget.Related items Economic development: The key to trade and aidJun 2nd 2005 The World Bank: Bush's man to take the helmMar 31st 2005 The World Bank: Wolf at the doorMar 17th 2005The Bank which Mr Wolfowitz now heads has as many sides as the Pentagon he has left.

The Economist

Do the new numbers portend a quicker end to the industry's ongoing nightmare?

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an ongoing nightmare", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific situation or event that is causing prolonged distress. Providing concrete details will enhance the impact and clarity of your writing.

Common error

While "an ongoing nightmare" is a vivid expression, avoid overusing it in your writing. Employing it too frequently can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, diversify your vocabulary with synonyms like "continuing ordeal" or "persistent agony".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an ongoing nightmare" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. It describes a situation or experience characterized by continuous and severe distress. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an ongoing nightmare" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe prolonged and distressing situations. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively conveys frustration and enduring hardship. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. While powerful, it should be used judiciously to avoid diminishing its impact. Alternatives like "a continuing ordeal" or "a persistent agony" can provide variety. Be sure to clearly define the source of the nightmare to enhance clarity. Overall, it’s a versatile phrase best employed with careful consideration of context and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a continuing ordeal

Focuses on the difficult and trying nature of the experience.

a never-ending torment

Emphasizes the pain and suffering involved.

a persistent agony

Highlights the constant and intense nature of the suffering.

a sustained catastrophe

Indicates a prolonged period of disaster and misfortune.

a prolonged misery

Stresses the extended duration of unhappiness.

a relentless hardship

Underscores the continuous and severe difficulties faced.

a chronic misfortune

Suggests a recurring pattern of bad luck or adverse events.

a perpetual tribulation

Emphasizes the unending and burdensome nature of the experience.

a constant affliction

Highlights the continuous suffering and distress.

an unending tribulation

Focuses on the fact that it never ends and is really difficult.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an ongoing nightmare" in a sentence?

To effectively use "an ongoing nightmare", clearly define what is causing the continuous distress or problem. For example: "The construction project has become "an ongoing nightmare" due to constant delays and budget overruns."

What are some alternatives to using "an ongoing nightmare"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a continuing ordeal", "a persistent agony", or "a never-ending torment". These phrases convey similar meanings while adding variety to your writing.

Is it appropriate to use "an ongoing nightmare" in formal writing?

While "an ongoing nightmare" is acceptable, it might be perceived as overly dramatic in formal writing. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "a persistent challenge" or "a continuing problem" in such contexts.

What distinguishes "an ongoing nightmare" from "a temporary setback"?

"An ongoing nightmare" describes a situation that is both distressing and prolonged, indicating a continuous series of problems. In contrast, "a temporary setback" refers to a short-term obstacle or delay that is expected to be resolved quickly.