grueling stretch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grueling stretch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a difficult or exhausting period of time, often in the context of work, training, or a challenging situation. Example: "After a grueling stretch of rehearsals, the cast was finally ready for opening night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Lin said he was not injured, just worn out after his seventh game in 10 days, a grueling stretch he never faced at Harvard.

The New York Times - Sports

A couple of meals during the last month have been disappointing, though; I'm hoping it's a glitch because Lisiano's fills an important niche in the greater New Haven dining scene and it makes for a convenient lunch break if you find yourself shopping that grueling stretch of Route 1.

The New York Times

After three long games and with a grueling stretch ahead, Girardi said he was merely being proactive.

The New York Times

Iona only dropped two games during the grueling stretch, which were against Marshall and Hofstra, at the tail end of the trip.

The New York Times

The Rangers have one more game to go — Tuesday at home against Florida — in a grueling stretch of five games in seven nights.

The New York Times - Sports

The aging and injured Liberty had to play three straight days, a grueling stretch no other W.N.B.A. team had ever faced.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

After such a grueling, stretched out, abrasive campaign, they would like to believe that "dos iz alts" -- "that's all there is".

Huffington Post

He headed into the grueling final stretch with four birdies, one double bogey and the double to finish at six under with a 69.

The New York Times

On a winning afternoon, a bold young player, a cagey veteran and a wise old coach began preparing for a grueling final stretch.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's just a grueling, grueling run.

The New York Times - Sports

Video: Buzz Aldrin On Space Tourism Article: The View From No. 2. The lawyer/triathlete explains why a grueling 17-hour stretch of running, swimming and biking in Hawaii is no match for running her Washington, D.C., business.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a period of intense activity or difficulty, use "grueling stretch" to effectively convey both the duration and the demanding nature of the experience. It is useful in contexts where endurance is tested.

Common error

While "grueling stretch" is acceptable in many situations, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Overuse can diminish its impact; opt for simpler terms like "tough time" or "hard period" in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grueling stretch" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "grueling" modifies the noun "stretch". It describes a period or segment of time characterized by intense difficulty and exhaustion, as affirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grueling stretch" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a period marked by intense difficulty and exhaustion. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage across various contexts, primarily in news and sports reporting. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in very informal settings. Alternative phrases like "arduous period" or "taxing phase" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. The phrase effectively conveys the sustained effort and challenge inherent in the specified time, making it a valuable tool for descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arduous period

Focuses on the difficulty and effort required during the time.

taxing phase

Emphasizes the depleting nature of the activity or time.

demanding spell

Highlights the intensity and requirements of the period.

challenging stint

Focuses on the difficulty and temporary nature of the experience.

tough segment

Emphasizes the difficulty and that it's part of a larger whole.

strenuous time

Highlights the physical or mental effort needed.

difficult patch

Suggests a period filled with problems or hardships.

punishing phase

Implies harshness and potential negative consequences.

trying period

Suggests a period that tests one's patience and endurance.

laborious span

Focuses on the amount of work and effort required.

FAQs

How can I use "grueling stretch" in a sentence?

You can use "grueling stretch" to describe a period of intense difficulty or effort, such as "The team faced a "grueling stretch" of games" or "She completed a "grueling stretch" of studying before the exam".

What are some alternatives to "grueling stretch"?

Some alternatives include "arduous period", "taxing phase", or "demanding spell", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "grueling stretch" formal or informal?

"Grueling stretch" is generally considered suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in news, sports reporting, and professional writing. In very casual conversation, simpler terms might be preferred.

What makes a "grueling stretch" different from a "difficult time"?

While both describe hardship, "grueling stretch" specifically emphasizes the duration and intensity of the challenge, implying sustained effort and endurance. A "difficult time" can be shorter or less intense.