can be arduous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be arduous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or process that is difficult, tiring, or requires a lot of effort. Example: "Completing the project on time can be arduous, especially with the tight deadlines we are facing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And the therapy itself can be arduous.

The New York Times - Health

But lining up all the paperwork can be arduous.

The New York Times

Acting the gracious host can be arduous, the writer things.

The New Yorker

This can be arduous and time-consuming for everybody involved.

Harvard University

The synthesis of these thioethers can be arduous, especially for longer peptides.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters

FLYING, as most travelers know all too well, can be arduous.

The New York Times - Travel

But that shopping can be arduous in a market not set up to respond to consumers.

The New York Times

The road to recovery from a second violent head injury can be arduous.

The New York Times

The registration process can be arduous and take three to four months.

The New York Times

But putting a story together about this kind of disjunctive past can be arduous.

The New York Times

The process of vetting genes can be arduous, explains Dr. Hirano.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a task or process, consider the specific aspect that makes it "arduous". Instead of simply stating that something "can be arduous", specify whether it's the time commitment, physical exertion, mental effort, or complexity involved.

Common error

While "arduous" is a valid and descriptive word, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "difficult" or "challenging" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be arduous" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun or gerund to indicate that a particular activity or process is difficult and requires significant effort. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

1.6666666666666667%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be arduous" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms, that describes something as difficult and requiring considerable effort. It is primarily found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. While generally versatile, it's advisable to consider simpler alternatives like "can be challenging" in more casual settings. When using the phrase, it's best to specify what aspect makes it "arduous" for greater clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be challenging

Replaces "arduous" with a more commonly used and less formal synonym: "challenging".

can be demanding

Substitutes "arduous" with "demanding", emphasizing the high requirements and effort involved.

can be taxing

Replaces "arduous" with "taxing", which highlights the draining or burdensome nature of the task.

can be grueling

Substitutes "arduous" with "grueling", suggesting a physically or mentally exhausting experience.

can be formidable

Replaces "arduous" with "formidable", emphasizing the intimidating or difficult nature of the task.

can be rigorous

Substitutes "arduous" with "rigorous", suggesting a strict and demanding process.

can be onerous

Replaces "arduous" with "onerous", highlighting the burdensome and troublesome nature of the task.

can be back-breaking

Substitutes "arduous" with "back-breaking", emphasizing the physically demanding aspect.

can be tough

Replaces "arduous" with a simpler, more colloquial term: "tough".

can be cumbersome

Replaces "arduous" with "cumbersome", emphasizing the slow and complicated nature of the task.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "can be arduous"?

When something "can be arduous", it means it's likely to be difficult, tiring, and require significant effort to complete.

How can I use "can be arduous" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe a task, process, or journey. For example, "The road to recovery can be arduous after a severe injury."

What can I say instead of "can be arduous"?

You can use alternatives like "can be challenging", "can be demanding", or "can be difficult" depending on the context.

Is "can be arduous" formal or informal?

While not overly formal, "can be arduous" is generally more appropriate for professional or academic writing than casual conversation. Simpler terms might be preferred in informal contexts.