an uphill task

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an uphill task" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a difficult or challenging task that requires significant effort to accomplish. Example: "Completing the project on time proved to be an uphill task due to the unexpected setbacks we faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It will be an uphill task.

The New York Times

Mr Sánchez has an uphill task.

The Economist

Mr Simitis faces an uphill task.

The Economist

But it will be an uphill task.

The Economist

But it was always an uphill task.

The Guardian - Business

To describe that as an uphill task is an understatement.

The New York Times

Widodo admitted that combating flooding is an uphill task.

The Guardian

It was an uphill task, an impossible task.

The Guardian - Sport

I have found the museum an uphill task.

The New York Times

Is moulding government into a single client an uphill task?

The Guardian

Tempers could easily fray.Selling the "better city" theme is also an uphill task.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an uphill task", ensure that the context clearly indicates the difficulty and effort required to accomplish the task. For instance, "Convincing the board to adopt the new strategy proved to be an uphill task" effectively conveys the challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "an uphill task" to describe simple or routine activities. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios where significant challenges and considerable effort are involved. Using it inappropriately can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "an uphill task" is to act as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement of a verb. Ludwig confirms this phrase's correct usage across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Sport

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an uphill task" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a challenging endeavor, as affirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media, it conveys the significant effort required to overcome obstacles. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations genuinely demanding. Alternatives like "a challenging endeavor" or "a difficult undertaking" can offer slight variations in tone. Remember to use it appropriately to maintain its impact and avoid trivializing its meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A challenging endeavor

Replaces "task" with "endeavor", emphasizing effort and determination, and replaces "uphill" with "challenging" to make the sentence slightly less evocative.

A difficult undertaking

Substitutes "task" with "undertaking", which suggests a more formal and significant project, while "difficult" replaces "uphill" for a simpler expression.

A formidable challenge

Uses "formidable challenge" to highlight the intimidating nature of the task, shifting the focus from effort to the imposing nature of the obstacle.

A tough assignment

Replaces "task" with "assignment", implying a specific duty or project with a degree of difficulty indicated by the word "tough".

A Herculean effort

Implies that the task requires immense strength and effort, referencing the mythological hero Hercules.

A demanding job

Substitutes "task" with "job", suggesting a specific role or responsibility, and uses "demanding" to convey the high level of effort required.

A painstaking process

Replaces the entire expression to focus on the detailed and careful effort needed, highlighting the meticulous nature of the work.

A tall order

Implies a task that is ambitious and difficult to achieve, presenting a significant challenge.

A grueling activity

Suggests that the task is physically or mentally exhausting, emphasizing the strenuous nature of the work.

A trying experience

Emphasizes the stressful and difficult nature of the task, focusing on the emotional impact of the challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "an uphill task" in a sentence?

Use "an uphill task" to describe a situation where significant effort and determination are needed to achieve a goal. For example: "Persuading the team to embrace the new software was "an uphill task"".

What are some alternatives to "an uphill task"?

You can use alternatives like "a challenging endeavor", "a difficult undertaking", or "a formidable challenge" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "an uphill task" in formal writing?

Yes, "an uphill task" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing significant challenges in professional or academic contexts. However, consider using alternatives like "a demanding job" for an even more professional tone.

What makes something "an uphill task" rather than just a "task"?

The phrase "an uphill task" implies that the task is not only a duty but also particularly difficult, requiring considerable effort and determination to overcome obstacles. It's not just any task, it's a "tough assignment".