many tribulations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "many tribulations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe numerous difficulties or challenges someone has faced or is facing. Example: "Throughout her life, she has endured many tribulations, but her resilience has always shone through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Among her many tribulations is having to stay in a dingy, unsanitary flea-pit of a hotel.

The Economist

After his escape and many tribulations, he became a successful businessman – and more importantly, a very good man.

The New York Times

Then, after the olive, came the final pope, "Peter the Roman," whose flock would suffer "many tribulations" not the least of which was the end of the world.

The New York Times

It was only after many tribulations that she and her second husband Richard Bertie (who had served as her gentleman-usher) found sanctuary in Poland.

Independent

Ms Hillenbrand recounts how prisoners would cook a stolen onion under a water heater, stuff sugar into their boots and mix the foulest available excrement into the Bird's food in the hopes of sickening him.Despite Mr Zamperini's many tribulations, the story has a happy ending.

The Economist

A somewhat similar theme, used for pious edification, is that of the legendary St. Eustace, reputedly a high officer under the Roman emperor Trajan, who lost his position, property, and family only to regain them after many tribulations, trials, and dangers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

HCA was founded by Senator Frist's father, and after many corporate tribulations, Thomas F. Frist Jr., the senator's brother, returned as chief executive to turn it around.

The New York Times - Arts

"When we become disheartened, we will be inspired by remembering how Wilma proceeded undaunted through so many trials and tribulations".

The New York Times

As an old geezer who has witnessed many trials and tribulations of this country, I had planned to sit back and see how this generation would handle the current crisis.

The New York Times

Passion, stubbornness and rage save Meg in the end, and it was exactly those qualities that (after many trials and tribulations, and more than 30 years later) saved me.

The Guardian - Books

From Oliver Twist and Anne of Green Gables to Harry Potter, plucky orphan stories promise a particular kind of narrative resolution: having lost their family, the orphan will — after many trials and tribulations — find a new one.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "many tribulations", consider the context to ensure the tone and formality align with your intended audience. Alternatives like "numerous hardships" may be more suitable for less formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "many tribulations" in very casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly dramatic or stilted. Simpler phrases like "a lot of problems" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "many tribulations" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a grammatically correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "many tribulations" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe numerous difficulties or challenges. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's important to consider the context and audience when using it, as simpler alternatives like "numerous hardships" may be more appropriate in informal settings. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and science-related content, with authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Economist frequently employing it. Remember to avoid overuse in casual conversation and opt for more straightforward language when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

numerous hardships

Replaces "tribulations" with a more common synonym, emphasizing difficulties.

various trials and ordeals

Substitutes both words with alternatives highlighting tests of endurance.

multiple challenges

Uses a broader term for difficulties faced, focusing on tasks needing effort.

a series of misfortunes

Emphasizes bad luck and negative events experienced.

several adversities

Highlights opposing forces and unfavorable conditions.

plenty of suffering

Focuses on the pain and distress experienced.

a host of difficulties

Indicates a large number of problems encountered.

a multitude of problems

Highlights a great quantity of issues faced.

endless struggles

Emphasizes the continuous and unrelenting nature of the challenges.

significant setbacks

Focuses on events that delay or prevent progress.

FAQs

How can I use "many tribulations" in a sentence?

You can use "many tribulations" to describe a period or situation filled with difficulties. For example: "After "many trials and tribulations", they finally achieved their goal."

What are some alternatives to "many tribulations"?

Alternatives include "numerous hardships", "multiple challenges", or "a series of misfortunes". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it better to say "many tribulations" or "many trials and tribulations"?

While both are grammatically correct, ""many trials and tribulations"" is a more common and established idiom. Using just "many tribulations" is acceptable but less frequent.

What is the difference between "tribulation" and "trial"?

"Trial" generally refers to a test or difficulty, while "tribulation" implies a more severe and prolonged period of suffering. Therefore, ""many trials and tribulations"" suggests a combination of both tests and prolonged suffering.