physically challenging

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "physically challenging" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe activities or tasks that require significant physical effort or endurance. Example: "The marathon was not only a test of speed but also a physically challenging experience for all participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Moreover, the hockey they play is remorseless and physically challenging.

The New Yorker

They are in physically challenging positions, but their bodies seem to be at ease, even graceful.

The New Yorker

His quest to reach the next milestone has been physically challenging.

The New York Times

For how physically challenging this day was, it was nice to see some applied research.

Cornell University

But that would require a rigorous illegal border crossing that can be physically challenging even for the healthy.

The New York Times - Health

Mornings are filled with physically challenging activities, including ground-level games, lessons on safety and technique, and rappelling.

Cornell University

The performance of our approach is demonstrated on a numerically and physically challenging 3D dynamic brittle-fragmentation test case.

Finite Elements in Analysis and Design

It's going to be mentally and physically challenging.

BBC

I think it is more mentally than physically challenging.

BBC

Having a paid job is both time-consuming and physically challenging for women.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

The weekends are made up of three core design elements: firstly, they are physically challenging.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing activities, specify the aspect that makes them "physically challenging". For example, mention whether it's due to duration, intensity, or specific physical skills required.

Common error

Avoid using "physically challenging" as a generic descriptor for any activity that involves movement. Instead, reserve it for scenarios that genuinely test someone's physical limits or capabilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physically challenging" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality of something, indicating that it demands significant physical effort or endurance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

24%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "physically challenging" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe activities or tasks that demand significant physical effort. As shown by Ludwig, it is used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While versatile, it's important to use it accurately to depict activities that truly test physical limits. Alternatives like "physically demanding" or "physically strenuous" can offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physically demanding

Focuses more directly on the demands placed on the body.

physically strenuous

Emphasizes the effort and energy required.

physically taxing

Highlights the burden or strain on the body.

laborious

Suggests a task requiring considerable physical labor.

arduous

Implies a difficult and tiring physical effort.

vigorous

Highlights the intensity and energy involved.

exacting on the body

Focuses on the rigorous requirements and impact on the physical form.

tough physically

A more informal way to describe the difficulty.

backbreaking

Implies a task that is exceptionally hard and liable to cause back pain.

requiring physical endurance

Specifically points out the need for sustained physical capability.

FAQs

How can I use "physically challenging" in a sentence?

You can use "physically challenging" to describe activities that require significant physical effort. For example: "The hike was "physically challenging" due to the steep incline".

What is a good alternative to "physically challenging"?

Alternatives include "physically demanding", "physically strenuous", or "laborious", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "physically challenging" or "mentally challenging"?

The choice depends on what aspect you want to emphasize. "Physically challenging" refers to tasks requiring physical effort, while "mentally challenging" refers to tasks requiring cognitive effort. Sometimes, activities can be both mentally and "physically challenging".

What makes something "physically challenging"?

Factors can include the intensity of the activity, the duration, environmental conditions (like heat or altitude), the strength and endurance required, and the specific skills needed to perform the task safely and effectively.