severe trial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "severe trial" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a difficult or challenging situation that tests someone's endurance or resolve. Example: "The team faced a severe trial during the project, but they managed to overcome the obstacles together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

His generosity to all literary ventures he regarded as worthy was remarkable, and his inability to reject appeals for help was a severe trial to his agent.

The Guardian

I want to say that this is, of course, a severe trial for our country, a great trial indeed.

Huffington Post

Many of his men blamed McCay for subjecting them to such a humiliating and severe trial.

Wikipedia

He is right that this is a severe trial for his country, but he is wrong in his belief that "other countries too have gone through such trials".

Huffington Post

Gentle Reminder: These tips have worked for me as preparation to cope during a personal crisis or severe trial, and sticking to them helped me get through the crisis -- to survive it.

Huffington Post

Irving was surprised and honored, writing, "It will be a severe trial to absent myself for a time from my dear little Sunnyside, but I shall return to it better enabled to carry it on comfortably".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

By a series of severe trials, the conspirators were traced and exiled.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Severe trials befell Solzhenitsyn, as they did millions of other people in this country," Mr. Gorbachev said in an interview with the Interfax news agency.

The New York Times - Books

"I had so many severe trials & Sore troubles but would to God that I could live all my troubles over and have them aggravated to the full of human imagination if it would recall the life of my brother.

The New York Times

Latterly, he withstood severe trials with remarkable fortitude – a near-fatal fall from a tree; Susan's diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease in 2010; his own with lymphoma in 2011; and, when things became impossible, leaving Walled Cottage after 53 years.

The Guardian

It's about a dog who goes through a series of pretty severe trials and tribulations and it made us cry.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "severe trial", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being tested or challenged. For instance, specify whether it's someone's faith, endurance, or skills.

Common error

Avoid using "severe trial" for minor inconveniences. This phrase should be reserved for truly significant hardships or challenges to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe trial" functions as a noun phrase where "severe" modifies the noun "trial". It describes a particularly difficult or challenging situation, serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig confirms the correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "severe trial" is a grammatically sound and meaningful expression used to describe particularly challenging or difficult experiences. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it is employed across various contexts including news, encyclopedias, and academic writing to convey intensity and highlight significant hardships. When using this phrase, consider the gravity of the situation to ensure its appropriate and impactful application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arduous ordeal

This alternative emphasizes the demanding and exhausting nature of the experience.

formidable challenge

This alternative highlights the intimidating and difficult nature of the task.

grueling test

This option stresses the physically or mentally exhausting aspect of the trial.

difficult experience

A general term emphasizing the hardship involved.

painful hardship

Focuses on the distress and suffering caused by the event.

tough challenge

Highlights the demanding nature of the situation.

critical juncture

Shifts the focus to a crucial or decisive point, implying high stakes.

major tribulation

Stresses a cause of great trouble or suffering.

demanding situation

Emphasizes the high level of effort and skill required.

significant adversity

Highlights the unfavorable or difficult conditions faced.

FAQs

What does "severe trial" mean?

A "severe trial" refers to a particularly difficult or challenging experience that tests one's endurance, resolve, or abilities to a great extent.

How can I use "severe trial" in a sentence?

You can use "severe trial" to describe a situation that presents a significant challenge, for example: "The economic downturn proved to be a "severe trial" for many small businesses."

What can I say instead of "severe trial"?

You can use alternatives like "arduous ordeal", "formidable challenge", or "grueling test" depending on the specific context and aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "severe trial" a common phrase?

While grammatically correct, "severe trial" is not as frequently used as other similar phrases like "tough challenge" or "difficult experience". Its use adds a level of intensity and seriousness to the description.