harsh demand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harsh demand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a request or requirement that is severe or difficult to meet. Example: "The manager's harsh demand for immediate results left the team feeling overwhelmed and stressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Ahmed didn't realize what had happened until an announcement came over the loudspeaker of the local mosque; the usual song of the afternoon call to prayer was replaced by a harsh demand.

The New Yorker

This alternative breaks the harsh demand of quid pro quo.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Turks sent him back to Mr Assad with harsh demands.

The Economist

He usually selected men whose behaviour was much like his own: harsh, demanding, and merciless.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He could have obeyed his instincts and started making harsh demands.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Horner has an untroubled sensibility as a composer; his songs offer simple rewards and make few harsh demands.

The New York Times

Is it easier to impose harsh demands upon small economies, but much harder to tell difficult truths to the big ones – particularly fellow Europeans?

The Guardian

Froney's Sis, orphaned when a month old, isn't sure about her identity and proves to be too delicate for the harsh demands of racing.

The New York Times - Books

Evidence had revealed the sons as "self-indulgent, substance-abusing, over-pampered" and depicted Adelson as a "harsh, demanding, unfeeling" person, the judge wrote.

The Guardian

Veteran coach Valorie Kondos Field works at 'planting seeds' to build trust among female gymnasts bruised by the harsh demands — and abuse — that have marred their sport.

The Washington Post

As they have grown in numbers and strength, they have organized into a force that mixes paramilitary discipline, civilian policing, Islamic law and the harsh demands of necessity with battlefield coldness and outright cunning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harsh demand", consider the context and the impact on the recipient. Ensure that the severity of the demand is justified and that the recipient has the means to meet it. Overusing this phrase can create a negative tone.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh demand" when a simpler, more reasonable request would suffice. Overstating the severity can damage relationships and undermine your credibility. Prefer softer alternatives if possible like "firm request".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh demand" functions as a noun phrase where "harsh" modifies the noun "demand". It is used to describe a request or requirement that is severe, strict, or difficult to meet. As stated by Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh demand" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a severe or difficult requirement. Ludwig AI indicates that it's usable in written English. While not exceedingly common, the phrase finds its place in various contexts, particularly in news and media, where its ability to convey a sense of severity is valuable. Related phrases include "stringent requirement" and "severe request". When employing this phrase, writers should be mindful of its potential impact and avoid overstating the severity when a milder alternative could suffice. The phrase is prevalent in news and media, fitting a neutral register. As per Ludwig's analysis, it's essential to consider the context and ensure the severity of the demand is justified.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stringent requirement

Emphasizes strictness and adherence to rules or standards.

severe request

Highlights the seriousness and potential consequences of the demand.

rigid condition

Focuses on the inflexibility and unyielding nature of the demand.

exacting stipulation

Implies a high level of precision and attention to detail in the demand.

strict prerequisite

Highlights the necessity of fulfilling the demand before proceeding.

uncompromising term

Stresses the firmness and lack of willingness to negotiate the demand.

onerous imposition

Emphasizes the burden and difficulty associated with the demand.

austere measure

Highlights the severity and potentially unpleasant nature of the demand.

inflexible ultimatum

Suggests a final, non-negotiable demand with potential repercussions.

difficult condition

It highlights the difficulty level to be accomplished.

FAQs

How can I use "harsh demand" in a sentence?

You can use "harsh demand" to describe a severe or difficult requirement. For example: "The company's leadership made a harsh demand for increased productivity."

What are some alternatives to "harsh demand"?

Alternatives include "stringent requirement", "severe request", or "rigid condition", depending on the specific context.

Is "harsh demand" a formal or informal phrase?

"Harsh demand" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its severity makes it more common in analytical or critical discussions. Choose "firm request" in case you want to keep the tone.

What is the difference between "harsh demand" and "strict demand"?

While both imply a non-negotiable requirement, "harsh demand" emphasizes the severity and potential negative consequences, whereas "strict demand" focuses on adherence to rules or standards.