hideous time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hideous time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period that is particularly unpleasant or distressing. Example: "During the hideous time of the pandemic, many people struggled with isolation and uncertainty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

So. "A hideous time ahead".

The Guardian

All this, to me, adds up to a hideous time ahead, potentially, for older people," said another.

The Guardian

It better rev up the learning curve because the United States plays Sweden at the same hideous time Friday.

The New York Times - Sports

It was an incredibly dark and hideous time of my life.

Vice

I'm guessing Shakespeare began to write A Midsummer Night's Dream after a hideous time wrestling with characters who would not come clear (e.g. family or bureaucrat landowners) and then he had this nightmarish mix, and came up flowing with this image; the world is crazy: milkmaid was screwing the donkey.

Huffington Post

Imagine how many calories you'll burn doing that "happy dance" when you land that big deal, complete those hideous time sheets, or achieve a work goal?

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Sure, it was a hideous, time-consuming dance with publicist to make anything happen.

Huffington Post

It wouldn't perhaps turn young superstars into student-athletes, but in today's hideous economic times, it might turn some deserving teenagers into students.

The New York Times

Instead, they inflicted such a hideous half-time scoreline on the erstwhile champions of everything in England that the Tigers were reduced to playing for pride, which they did to some effect – for 10 minutes of the second half, anyway.

The Guardian - Sport

Wasn't that look hideous the first time around?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's a hideous waste of time and extremely annoying for those around me.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a period of intense suffering or negativity, "hideous time" can add a strong emotional impact. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing, as it can be quite strong. Alternatives like "terrible time" or "difficult period" may be more appropriate in some contexts.

Common error

While "hideous time" is grammatically correct, its strong negative connotation may not be suitable for all formal writing. In professional or academic contexts, consider using more neutral language such as "challenging period" or "difficult phase" to maintain objectivity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hideous time" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "hideous" modifies the noun "time". It describes a period characterized by extreme unpleasantness or distress. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hideous time" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to describe a period marked by extreme unpleasantness or suffering. As Ludwig confirms, its use is correct and understandable. While the phrase appears across various sources, it is more commonly found in news and media contexts. When using "hideous time", it's important to consider the intensity of the adjective "hideous" and whether it aligns with the overall tone of your writing. In more formal settings, synonyms like "terrible time" or "challenging period" might be more appropriate, maintaining objectivity while still conveying the negativity of the experience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

terrible time

Replaces "hideous" with a more common and general term for something very bad.

awful time

Similar to "terrible time", but with a slightly less formal tone.

horrible time

Another close synonym, emphasizing the unpleasantness of the experience.

dreadful time

Emphasizes the feeling of fear and anxiety associated with the time.

ghastly time

A more dramatic and intense way to describe a very unpleasant time.

appalling time

Highlights the shocking and disturbing nature of the period.

nightmarish time

Focuses on the terrifying and unpleasant aspects, comparing it to a nightmare.

unpleasant experience

A more general term, but captures the negative aspect of the "time".

difficult period

Emphasizes the challenges and hardships faced during that time.

trying ordeal

Highlights the test of endurance and strength during the negative experience.

FAQs

What does "hideous time" mean?

The phrase "hideous time" refers to a period characterized by extreme unpleasantness, suffering, or negativity. It suggests a time filled with deeply disturbing or offensive experiences.

How can I use "hideous time" in a sentence?

You can use "hideous time" to describe a past event or a future prospect. For instance, "The war was a "hideous time" for the entire nation", or "Many fear a "hideous time" ahead due to the economic crisis."

What are some synonyms for "hideous time"?

Alternatives to "hideous time" include "terrible time", "awful time", "horrific period", "dreadful experience", or "difficult phase". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of negativity you want to convey.

Is "hideous time" formal or informal?

The phrase "hideous time" is relatively neutral but carries a strong emotional charge. While grammatically correct, it might be perceived as slightly informal or overly dramatic in some formal contexts. In such cases, consider using alternatives that convey negativity with less intensity, such as "challenging period" or "difficult time".