difficult ordeal

USAGE SUMMARY

"difficult ordeal" is technically correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a challenging experience, usually one in which the person involved faces obstacles or hardship. For example, "John had to endure a difficult ordeal for 12 months in order to complete his apprenticeship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"We are also grateful to those who have helped us throughout this difficult ordeal".

Independent

He called on the international community including the African Union to "support our people during this difficult ordeal".

The Guardian

"It has been a very difficult ordeal for him and his family for the past 14 months.

The Guardian

"After a long and difficult ordeal, I am elated to be on my way back to my home and my family," the statement quoted Ms. Esfandiari as saying.

The New York Times

Prem said they were now together in "a place of safety and they're doing very well considering the difficult ordeal they've gone through".

The Guardian

"His ability to keep the jury together through that very difficult ordeal, and complete the trial in an efficient manner, was one of the most remarkable things I've seen," Mr. Gravante said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

He replied simply: "I think that what we must be rejoicing about is that the hostages who went through difficult ordeals, who were isolated for many months from their families, are free".

BBC

All of us go through difficult ordeals, as well as happy moments.

Huffington Post

He told me that it was the most difficult physical ordeal of his life.

The New Yorker

"This has been a long, difficult and painful ordeal for Xue Feng, but not only for Xue but also for his wife, Nan, and his two kids," he said in a statement.

The New York Times

In a statement, issued on Tuesday night, Gerry Adams said: "This has been a difficult and distressing ordeal for all my family and for my niece, Áine.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "difficult ordeal", ensure the context clearly indicates a prolonged and challenging experience, not just a minor inconvenience.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult ordeal" to describe everyday inconveniences. Reserve this phrase for situations involving significant hardship, pain, or prolonged suffering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult ordeal" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "difficult" modifies the noun "ordeal". Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showcasing its common application in describing challenging experiences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

4%

Science

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult ordeal" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe prolonged and challenging experiences. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage in news and media. While the phrase is effective in conveying hardship, it's crucial to reserve it for situations involving significant suffering and to avoid overstating minor inconveniences. Alternatives such as "challenging experience" or "harrowing experience" can provide nuanced variations, but "difficult ordeal" remains a potent and readily understood descriptor for truly trying times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

harrowing experience

Highlights the distressing and disturbing nature of the experience, increasing the intensity.

severe hardship

Emphasizes the suffering and difficulty endured during the experience.

challenging experience

Replaces 'ordeal' with a more general term for a difficult situation, softening the impact slightly.

painful episode

Focuses on the emotional or physical pain associated with the experience.

grueling trial

Focuses on the exhausting and demanding aspect of the experience.

distressing situation

Highlights the upsetting and worrying aspects of the experience.

trying experience

Emphasizes the testing or straining aspect of the experience.

testing time

Similar to 'trying experience', but perhaps slightly less intense.

troubled period

Describes the experience as a phase or span of time filled with difficulty.

tough time

A more informal and understated way to describe a difficult experience.

FAQs

How can I use "difficult ordeal" in a sentence?

Use "difficult ordeal" to describe a significantly challenging and prolonged experience. For instance, "The survivors recounted their "difficult ordeal" after being stranded at sea for several days".

What are some alternatives to "difficult ordeal"?

Alternatives include "challenging experience", "tough time", or "harrowing experience", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "difficult ordeal"?

It's appropriate when referring to a situation involving significant hardship, suffering, or prolonged adversity. Avoid using it for minor inconveniences.

Is there a difference between "difficult ordeal" and "trying experience"?

While both describe challenging situations, "difficult ordeal" suggests a more prolonged and severe period of hardship than a "trying experience", which might be shorter or less intense.