can be strenuous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be strenuous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe activities or tasks that require a lot of effort or exertion. Example: "Running a marathon can be strenuous, especially for first-time participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The player hardly moves, but the small motions and the constant isometric pressure can be strenuous.

The New York Times - Tech

The exhibition covers seven fields where walking can be strenuous and cow droppings are prevalent, so appropriate footwear is advised.

The New York Times

The 10-minute climb from the village can be strenuous, but the views are well worth the effort it takes (closed Mon; £5).

BBC

While nonprofit legal work can be strenuous, the duo said they wouldn't have it any other way.

Los Angeles Times

Therefore, adding even more pressure to an already new phase of life -- their impending marriage -- can be strenuous for all involved.

Huffington Post

Tremolos, like trills, can be strenuous to people who aren't used to playing them.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Outdoors can be quite strenuous, but it is more self-paced," says Carl Foster, director of the human sports laboratory at the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Given that beach-based activity can be physically strenuous (as discussed above) then a working digestive system is necessary to convert food and drink sources into energy.

The Guardian

For small businesses with minimal marketing budgets, monitoring online reviews can be a strenuous manual process.

Forbes

During the winter, the trip to the gym can be more strenuous than the actual workout.

Forbes

Finding the right insurance plans can be a strenuous process, but it doesn't have to be.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a task or activity, follow "can be strenuous" with specifics about what makes it so, such as "lifting heavy objects" or "long hours of concentration".

Common error

Avoid using "can be strenuous" when simpler, more direct language would suffice. Instead of saying "The process can be strenuous", consider "The process is difficult" or "The process requires effort".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be strenuous" functions as a verb phrase acting as a predicate adjective, describing a subject's potential to require considerable effort or exertion. As stated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be strenuous" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe activities or tasks that might demand significant effort or energy. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Its usage is common in news, wiki and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, consider whether a simpler alternative might be more appropriate depending on the level of formality required. Remember to add specifics about what makes something strenuous for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be demanding

Replaces "can" with "may", suggesting a possibility rather than a general potential, and uses "demanding" which focuses on the requirements of the activity.

could prove challenging

Indicates a potential difficulty, shifting from the exertion to the difficulty involved.

might require significant effort

Highlights the necessity of effort, making the sentence more explicit about the input needed.

may be physically taxing

Emphasizes the physical aspect and the burden it places on the body.

can involve considerable exertion

Focuses on the action of exerting oneself, making it clear that significant effort is needed.

might present difficulties

Highlights the potential for problems, focusing less on effort and more on obstacles.

can put you to the test

Shifts the focus to the person undergoing the activity, suggesting it will challenge their abilities.

may push your limits

Implies the activity will challenge one's personal boundaries and capabilities.

can be quite exhausting

Substitutes "strenuous" with "exhausting", focusing on the tiredness that results from the activity.

may necessitate hard work

Directly points out that hard work will be necessary, framing it as a condition for success.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be strenuous" to describe activities or tasks that require significant effort or exertion. For example, "Marathon running "can be strenuous", especially in hot weather".

What are some alternatives to saying "can be strenuous"?

Alternatives include "may be demanding", "might require significant effort", or "can involve considerable exertion" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be strenuous" or "is strenuous"?

"Can be strenuous" suggests a possibility or potential, while "is strenuous" states a fact. Use "can be strenuous" when the activity isn't always difficult, but has the potential to be. For instance, "Hiking "can be strenuous" depending on the trail", versus "Mountain climbing is strenuous".

What's the difference between "can be strenuous" and "can be stressful"?

"Can be strenuous" refers to physical or mental effort, while "can be stressful" refers to emotional or psychological strain. An activity "can be strenuous" due to its physical demands, whereas it "can be stressful" due to tight deadlines or high stakes.