during this hard time

USAGE SUMMARY

"during this hard time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a difficult period of time that someone is experiencing. Example: My family has been supporting each other during this hard time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I was really touched by the messages of support during this hard time.

Independent

He added: "We have had a big response from the community in just 12 hours with donations and even Central Taxis has given him taxi vouchers so he can get around during this hard time.

BBC

Meanwhile, Mr Haines's teenage daughter, Bethany, wrote on a Facebook page dedicated to him: "I was really touched by the messages of support during this hard time," and said her father "would be really touched and grateful".

BBC

ARY News, a private news channel and Express Group, which owns a private news channel and two newspapers, have attracted criticism for overtly siding with the military during this hard time on the media and reporters.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"We felt it was essential to take this step to further control our costs during these hard times".

Forbes

They speak warmly of him, as soldiers and miners and ballplayers will do about companions during the hard times.

The New York Times - Sports

What is their availability during the hard times all companies go through?

TechCrunch

Drexel has retained 85% of its employer-partners during these hard times.

Forbes

It made me feel an unexpected happiness during the hard times.

Science Magazine

As Fred Wilson points out, startups fortunate enough to enjoy venture capital will fare the best during these hard times.

TechCrunch

Huntsman's editors at Wharton Publishing forced him to delete names when it came to his experiences during the hard times.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider the specific context and ensure your message conveys genuine support rather than trivializing the difficulty. Tailor your language to show you understand the gravity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "during this hard time" in situations where the hardship is severe or long-lasting without offering tangible support or understanding. Acknowledge the magnitude of the situation before offering words of encouragement to avoid sounding dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during this hard time" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by specifying when something occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "during this hard time" is a prepositional phrase used to acknowledge a period of difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English, typically serving to express empathy or support. The phrase appears mostly in news and media contexts. Alternatives such as "in this difficult period" or "through this challenging phase" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific context. When using this phrase, it's essential to ensure sincerity and offer tangible support to avoid sounding dismissive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in this time of hardship

Highlights the unfortunate state of difficulty.

during this period of adversity

Emphasizes the unfortunate state or condition.

through this tough situation

Emphasizes the adversity of the situation.

amidst this difficult period

Highlights the ongoing nature of the hardship.

through this challenging phase

Focuses on the temporary aspect of the difficulty.

in these trying circumstances

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the situation.

in the face of this adversity

Emphasizes courage and resilience when confronting difficulty.

while facing these hardships

Highlights the act of confronting difficulties.

under these stressful conditions

Highlights the stress induced by the circumstances.

whilst navigating this crisis

Highlights the act of getting through the situation.

FAQs

What does "during this hard time" mean?

The phrase "during this hard time" refers to a period of difficulty, struggle, or adversity that someone is currently experiencing. It's used to acknowledge and address a challenging situation.

How can I use "during this hard time" in a sentence?

You can use "during this hard time" to offer support, express empathy, or explain actions taken to mitigate difficulties. For example, "We are offering extra support "during this hard time" to ensure everyone feels supported."

What are some alternatives to saying "during this hard time"?

Some alternatives include phrases like "in this difficult period", "through this challenging phase", or "in this time of hardship", each subtly altering the emphasis on the duration or intensity of the difficulty.

Is it appropriate to use "during this hard time" in formal settings?

Yes, "during this hard time" is generally appropriate in formal settings, especially when offering condolences or explaining organizational responses to challenging circumstances. However, consider the audience and tailor your language for clarity and empathy. Using alternatives like "amidst this difficult period" might be suitable in more professional environments.