big headache

USAGE SUMMARY

'big headache' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a problem or situation that is causing great stress or difficulty. It can also refer to a literal headache that is particularly intense or severe. Example: "The new project at work is causing me a big headache. There are so many details to coordinate and tight deadlines to meet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

MIGRAINES are a big headache.

The Economist

It's just a big headache.

The New York Times

Which is a big headache.

The New York Times

It was a big headache.

The Guardian

"This is a big headache," she said.

The New York Times

This is a big headache all round.

The Economist

Some technology integration is a big headache.

The New York Times

It was a big, big headache".

The New York Times - Health

It all gives us a big headache.

The New York Times

"The Olympics are just a big headache.

The New York Times

Sounds like a big headache, right?

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "big headache" to describe situations causing significant but not necessarily catastrophic problems. It's suitable for everyday challenges and frustrations.

Common error

Avoid using "big headache" for extremely serious or tragic events; it can diminish the gravity of the situation. Opt for stronger terms like "crisis", "catastrophe", or "tragedy" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "big headache" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a situation, task, or issue that is problematic or troublesome. Ludwig AI confirms it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "big headache" is a common and generally accepted way to describe something that causes trouble or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to express frustration or annoyance. While its neutral register makes it broadly applicable, formal contexts may warrant alternatives like "significant problem" or "serious difficulty". Remember to reserve "big headache" for situations of moderate difficulty, avoiding its use in extremely serious or tragic contexts to maintain appropriate tone and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant problem

Highlights the importance of the issue.

serious difficulty

Emphasizes the level of challenge involved.

major inconvenience

Focuses on the trouble caused rather than the distress.

major challenge

Highlights the difficulty of overcoming the issue.

vexing issue

Emphasizes the irritating nature of the problem.

considerable nuisance

Focuses on the annoyance caused.

real bother

Emphasizes the inconvenience and irritation.

tough situation

Highlights the adverse circumstances.

grave concern

Highlights the seriousness and worry associated.

not a walk in the park

An idiomatic alternative emphasizing difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "big headache" in a sentence?

You can use "big headache" to describe something that causes significant trouble or difficulty. For example, "Dealing with the bureaucracy was a "big headache"." or "The constant delays are a "big headache" for everyone involved."

What's a more formal way to say "big headache"?

While "big headache" is widely understood, in more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "significant problem", "serious difficulty", or "major inconvenience", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "big headache" appropriate for describing a physical ailment?

While primarily used to describe problematic situations, "big headache" can also refer to a particularly intense or severe physical headache. However, using "splitting headache" or "severe headache" would be more precise and less ambiguous.

What are some situations where I shouldn't use "big headache"?

Avoid using "big headache" when discussing extremely serious or sensitive topics such as a death in the family or a major disaster. In those cases, it's better to use language that reflects the gravity of the situation, such as "grave concern" or a "serious matter".