physically demanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "physically demanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that requires a lot of physical effort, such as a job or a task. For example, "This job requires a lot of physical labor, so it is quite physically demanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Construction is physically demanding.

The New York Times

It's physically demanding and fun".

The New York Times

It is also physically demanding.

The New York Times

Her life was physically demanding.

The New York Times

Both live physically demanding, isolated lives.

The Economist

Challenges: The work is physically demanding.

Princeton University

"Fencing is incredibly physically demanding," he said.

The New York Times

It was physically demanding, thrilling and accessible.

The New York Times

These activities were always physically demanding.

The New York Times - Arts

"This is a physically demanding tournament.

The New York Times - Sports

This kind of work must be physically demanding.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a job or activity, specify which aspects are "physically demanding" for clarity. For example, instead of saying "Construction is physically demanding", specify "Construction is physically demanding due to heavy lifting and prolonged standing".

Common error

Avoid using "physically demanding" as a generic descriptor. Instead of vaguely stating "That was physically demanding", detail how something was physically demanding. For instance, say "The hike was physically demanding because of the steep incline and rough terrain".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physically demanding" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. Ludwig AI confirms it is suitable for use in written English. It typically modifies nouns to indicate that a task, job, or activity requires significant physical exertion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "physically demanding" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe tasks or activities requiring substantial physical exertion. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, the phrase is widely used across various domains, including news, science, and academia, as well as more general contexts. While its meaning is generally clear, providing context on which aspects of something make it "physically demanding" can greatly enhance clarity. Alternatives like "strenuous" or "arduous" may offer subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physically intense

Highlights the high level of physical activity and exertion.

strenuous

Focuses on the energy and effort required, often implying difficulty.

exacting

Highlights the need for precision and rigorous effort.

arduous

Emphasizes the prolonged and difficult nature of the task.

taxing on the body

Specifically points to the burden placed on the physical form.

laborious

Suggests the task involves considerable manual effort and toil.

energy-sapping

Highlights the depletion of energy reserves.

tough on the physique

Directly relates to the physical robustness needed.

muscle-draining

Emphasizes the heavy use and exhaustion of muscles.

back-breaking

Specifically implies work that is hard on the back.

FAQs

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

You can use "physically demanding" to describe jobs, sports, or activities that require a lot of physical effort. For example, "Being a firefighter is a "physically demanding" job".

What's a good alternative to "physically demanding"?

Alternatives include "strenuous", "arduous", or "exacting", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct: "physically demanding" or "physical demanding"?

"Physically demanding" is the correct form. "Physical demanding" is grammatically incorrect because "physically" is an adverb modifying the adjective "demanding".

What makes a job "physically demanding"?

A job is considered "physically demanding" if it requires significant physical effort, such as heavy lifting, prolonged standing, repetitive motions, or working in uncomfortable positions.