be a massive challenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a massive challenge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a task or situation that is expected to be very difficult or demanding. Example: "The project deadline is approaching, and we know it will be a massive challenge to complete everything on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Ivan's condition would be a massive challenge to any parent.

Independent

"It was always going to be a massive challenge.

The Guardian - Sport

Their back row will be a massive challenge".

The Guardian - Sport

It'll be a massive challenge for us," said O'Connell.

The Guardian - Sport

"It will be a massive challenge because they're an excellent side.

Independent

But every game will be a massive challenge, starting with our opener against West Ham.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

It's a massive challenge," O'Sullivan added.

Independent

This is a massive challenge.

The Guardian

Of course, it is a massive challenge.

The Guardian

"This is a massive challenge, an adventure," Backe said.

The New York Times

"It's a massive challenge to play someone mentally disabled.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a massive challenge", ensure the context clearly identifies what specific aspects of the situation or task make it so difficult. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

While grammatically sound, overuse of "be a massive challenge" in casual conversation or informal writing may sound overly dramatic. Consider using simpler alternatives like "be really hard" or "be quite difficult" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a massive challenge" functions as a predicative expression. It characterizes a subject (a task, situation, or goal) as something substantially difficult. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be a massive challenge" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that will require significant effort and resources. As validated by Ludwig, it's used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to provide context and avoid overuse in informal settings. Consider alternatives like "pose a considerable difficulty" or "present a significant hurdle" for stylistic variation. The abundance of examples confirms its relevance and widespread application in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pose a considerable difficulty

This option uses 'difficulty' instead of 'challenge', emphasizing the problematic aspect of the situation.

present a significant hurdle

This alternative replaces the general term 'challenge' with 'hurdle', highlighting the obstacle-like nature of the difficulty.

entail a high degree of difficulty

This formal option uses 'entail' and 'degree of difficulty' to convey the seriousness of the challenge.

represent a major obstacle

This alternative replaces 'challenge' with 'obstacle', stressing the impeding nature of the situation.

prove to be extremely demanding

This phrase emphasizes the demanding nature of the task, suggesting it will require a lot of effort and energy.

be a Herculean task

This option uses a metaphor to describe the challenge as an extremely difficult and demanding undertaking, like the labors of Hercules.

demand substantial effort

This variation shifts the focus from the challenge itself to the amount of effort required to overcome it.

involve considerable complexity

This alternative focuses on the intricate and complicated aspects of the challenge.

require significant resources

This option highlights the need for resources, such as time, money, or personnel, to address the challenge.

stretch resources to the limit

This option highlights that the challenge can stretch resources, as it requires all resources possible to be employed to the limits.

FAQs

How can I use "be a massive challenge" in a sentence?

You can use "be a massive challenge" to describe something that requires significant effort and resources. For example, "Completing the project on time will "be a massive challenge" because of the limited resources."

What are some alternatives to saying "be a massive challenge"?

Alternatives include "present a significant hurdle", "pose a considerable difficulty", or "represent a major obstacle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "be a massive challenge" in formal writing?

Yes, "be a massive challenge" is suitable for formal writing. However, consider alternatives like "entail a high degree of difficulty" for an even more formal tone.

What makes "be a massive challenge" different from "be a difficult task"?

"Be a massive challenge" implies a greater scale or degree of difficulty than "be a difficult task". It suggests that the task requires substantial effort, resources, and strategic planning to overcome.