bit of a hole

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bit of a hole" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or problem that is somewhat difficult or challenging, often implying a minor setback or issue. Example: "After realizing I had forgotten my wallet at home, I found myself in a bit of a hole when it came to paying for lunch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

"We have dug a bit of a hole there".

The New York Times

He said the United States was in a bit of a hole...

The Washington Post

"We have a bit of a hole to dig ourselves out of," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

It was on a descent, there was a bit of a hole in road.

The Guardian - Sport

He bats, bowls and he's a leader in the field so it is a bit of a hole.

The Guardian - Sport

"I think we've gotten ourselves into a little bit of a hole, but our mood is fine.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Rose is making a bit of a mess of this hole, meanwhile; he bumps his third straight through the green, the ball nestling in the thick stuff at the back.

The Guardian - Sport

Haglofs OXO 70lt Expedition Rucksack, £230, Cotswold Outdoor   This one will put a bit more of a hole in the bank balance but if you're looking at doing a lot of multi-day treks, you may want to treat yourself with something which gives a lot more comfort.

Independent

"London is a bit of a black hole in terms of patient experience of cancer care.

The Guardian

"Opa!," a sweet, nontaxing movie set in the gorgeous Greek Isles, has a bit of a black hole at its center named Matthew Modine.

The New York Times

"We're left with the feeling that it's bit of a black hole," said Andreas Riedel of Banque Pictet in Zurich.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bit of a hole" to describe a situation that is recoverable but requires effort to overcome. Avoid using it for catastrophic or unfixable scenarios.

Common error

While acceptable, "bit of a hole" can sound informal in professional writing. Opt for phrases like "difficult situation" or "setback" in reports or formal correspondence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bit of a hole" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically acting as a noun phrase. It often follows a linking verb to describe a situation as being problematic or challenging. As evidenced by Ludwig, this usage is widely accepted and understood.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Sport

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bit of a hole" is a common and generally acceptable way to describe a somewhat difficult or challenging situation, as affirmed by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the context. It is especially common in news and media outlets. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "difficult situation" or "setback". Remember to reserve it for situations that are manageable and recoverable, and avoid overusing it in formal writing. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is usable in written English to describe a situation or problem that is somewhat difficult or challenging, often implying a minor setback or issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a difficult situation

This alternative is more general, referring to a challenging circumstance without necessarily implying a mistake or fault.

in a tight spot

This alternative suggests a situation where one has limited options or resources.

in a predicament

This alternative implies a puzzling or troublesome situation.

in a jam

This alternative is more informal and suggests a situation that is difficult to escape.

in a bind

This alternative suggests a situation where one is restricted or constrained.

facing a setback

This alternative focuses on the negative event rather than the resulting situation.

up against it

This alternative emphasizes the difficulty and struggle of the situation.

in trouble

This alternative is a broad term suggesting a problematic or dangerous situation.

in hot water

This alternative suggests one is likely to face punishment or criticism.

in a mess

This alternative implies a state of disarray or confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "bit of a hole" in a sentence?

You can use "bit of a hole" to describe a situation that is somewhat problematic or difficult. For example, "After the unexpected expenses, we found ourselves in a bit of a hole financially."

What can I say instead of "bit of a hole"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult situation", "tight spot", or "setback" depending on the context.

Is "bit of a hole" formal or informal?

"Bit of a hole" tends to be more informal. In professional or academic writing, consider using more formal alternatives like "challenging situation" or "problematic circumstance".

When is it appropriate to use "bit of a hole"?

It's appropriate to use "bit of a hole" when describing a situation that presents a moderate challenge or difficulty that can be overcome with effort. Avoid using it for severe crises or irreparable problems.