at this most difficult time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this most difficult time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express empathy or support during a challenging period in someone's life or situation. Example: "We want you to know that we are here for you at this most difficult time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Our prayers are with them at this most difficult time.

The New York Times

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Esther and the family at this most difficult time.

The New York Times

Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.

The New York Times

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Janner family at this most difficult time".

Independent

We send our heartfelt condolences to them and to their entire family at this most difficult time.

The New York Times

Our hearts and thoughts go out to his wife, children and grandchildren at this most difficult time.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The standard Salmon defence is that he has done a "fantastic job at the most difficult time".

The Guardian

As we push for sales to help vendors at the most difficult time of the year, we run a series of bumper seasonal editions.

The Guardian - Books

I will never forget the kindness of our librarians and how they helped my husband, and, by extension, me, at the most difficult time of our lives.

The Guardian

Sassoon said he still felt too emotionally involved with Owen to undertake it himself, as he explained to Blunden: "I have always suffered from an obscure difficulty in clarifying my friendship with him - perhaps because the loss of him was a shock which I never faced squarely - coming as it did at the most difficult time, when I was emotionally and physically without any foundations".

The Guardian - Books

Far too often the system we have constructed drives a coach and horses through the relationships that sustain children at the most difficult times in their lives.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at this most difficult time", ensure that your message conveys genuine empathy and support. Avoid clichés and offer concrete assistance if possible.

Common error

While appropriate in many situations, avoid using "at this most difficult time" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding insincere.

Linguistic Context

Grammatically, the phrase "at this most difficult time" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It specifies the circumstances under which an action or feeling is expressed, typically offering condolences or support. Ludwig shows examples in contexts where sympathy is conveyed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at this most difficult time" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey empathy and support. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely employed in various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as formal business communications. Its primary function is to offer comfort and acknowledge the challenges faced during periods of hardship. While effective, it's advisable to use it sincerely and avoid overuse, opting for alternative phrases like "during this challenging period" or "in these trying circumstances" to maintain reader engagement and sincerity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during this tough time

Simplifies the wording while retaining the core meaning. Less formal.

during this challenging period

Focuses on the duration and nature of the difficulty. It shortens the original phrase.

in these trying circumstances

Highlights the difficult conditions surrounding the situation. This phrase is a little bit more formal.

in this moment of hardship

Emphasizes the immediate difficulty being faced. Uses "hardship" instead of "difficult time".

in light of these hardships

Acknowledges the difficulties and implies a need for adjustment or understanding.

under the current circumstances

More general, referring to the present situation without explicitly mentioning difficulty.

through this period of adversity

Emphasizes the negative and challenging nature of the time. More formal and literary.

as you face these trials

Highlights the challenging nature of the experience, framing it as a test. More dramatic.

as you navigate this challenging phase

Focuses on the process of dealing with the difficulty. More personal and encouraging.

at this juncture

More formal and less emotionally charged, referring to a point in time.

FAQs

How to use "at this most difficult time" in a sentence?

The phrase "at this most difficult time" is typically used to offer condolences or express support. For example, "Our thoughts are with you "at this most difficult time" after the loss of your loved one."

What can I say instead of "at this most difficult time"?

You can use alternatives like "during this challenging period", "in these trying circumstances", or "in this moment of hardship" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "at this most difficult time" in a formal setting?

Yes, "at this most difficult time" is appropriate in formal settings such as business communications or official statements, as it conveys empathy in a respectful manner. Make sure that it is used sincerely and not just as a formality.

What's the difference between "at this difficult time" and "at this most difficult time"?

The phrase "at this most difficult time" intensifies the expression of empathy compared to "at this difficult time". The addition of "most" emphasizes the extreme nature of the challenge or hardship being faced.