harsh times

USAGE SUMMARY

"harsh times" is a correct and usable phrase in written English and is typically used to refer to a difficult, stressful, or trying period.
Example: The family had been through some harsh times when they lost their home to a fire.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

HARSH TIMES Opens today nationwide.

The New York Times

"The fact is, we confront harsh times.

The New York Times

Harsh times call for harsh measures.

The New York Times

And would we thrive in these harsh times?

The Guardian

Even so, these are unusually harsh times for oil refiners.

The New York Times

Not because these are harsh times when security isn't normally an excuse for fun.

The New York Times - Style

By then, however, "Harsh Times" has signaled that the possibility for redemption is long past.

The New York Times

Those were harsh times – there was still resistance against the revolution.

The Guardian

"Harsh Times" is rated R (Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian).

The New York Times

Women helped to keep the continuity of Islamic education in Central Asia during the harsh times of Communist dominance.

Stanford University

Harsh times, when it was frankly hell to be here, but some of us were lucky and survived.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing economic difficulties or societal challenges, use "harsh times" to convey a sense of severity and widespread impact. For example, "During these "harsh times", many families are struggling to make ends meet."

Common error

While "harsh times" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "tough times" or "difficult situation" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh times" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific period characterized by adversity and difficulty, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh times" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that effectively conveys a period marked by significant difficulty and adversity. As Ludwig highlights, it appears most frequently in news and media but also finds usage in academic writing. While synonymous with phrases like "hard times", "harsh times" tends to suggest a greater degree of severity. When using the phrase, consider your audience and the level of formality required, but know that it is widely accepted and understood. Keep in mind it is best practice to use it when you want to emphasize the difficulties in the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hard times

A very close synonym, "hard times" is nearly interchangeable with "harsh times", differing mainly in stylistic preference.

a period of hardship

This phrase directly refers to the suffering and difficulties experienced during the time.

difficult circumstances

This alternative focuses on the situational aspect, referring to the unfavorable conditions that define "harsh times".

times of trouble

This suggests a period marked by problems, difficulties, and unrest.

trying circumstances

This suggests a situation that tests one's resilience and patience, emphasizing the challenges involved.

adverse conditions

This alternative highlights the negative and unfavorable nature of the circumstances.

tough period

This phrase offers a more general and less intense way to describe a difficult time.

days of adversity

This alternative emphasizes the challenging and unfavorable nature of the period.

challenging era

This alternative refers to a longer span of time marked by significant difficulties and challenges.

economic downturn

This alternative specifically refers to periods of economic hardship and decline.

FAQs

What does "harsh times" mean?

"Harsh times" refers to a period characterized by significant difficulty, suffering, or adversity. It often implies widespread challenges affecting many people or a specific group.

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

You can use "harsh times" to describe periods of economic hardship, social unrest, or personal difficulty. For example, "The community rallied together during the "harsh times" following the natural disaster."

What are some synonyms for "harsh times"?

Synonyms for "harsh times" include "difficult circumstances", "trying circumstances", "hard times", and "adverse conditions". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Are "hard times" and "harsh times" interchangeable?

While "hard times" and "harsh times" are very similar, "harsh times" often implies a greater degree of severity or suffering compared to "hard times". Both can be used to describe difficult periods, but "harsh times" emphasizes the intensity of the challenges.