significant adversity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant adversity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a considerable amount of hardship or challenges faced by an individual or group. Example: "Despite facing significant adversity throughout her life, she persevered and achieved her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Protective experiences and coping skills on one side counterbalance significant adversity on the other.

Harvard University

Science tells us that some children develop resilience, or the ability to overcome significant adversity, while others do not.

Harvard University

The Browns have even survived significant adversity, coping with the loss of Pro Bowl center Alex Mack to a broken leg.

The Guardian - Sport

It finds people who have experienced significant adversity in their lives are more likely to gravitate toward an extreme spot on the ideological spectrum.

University of California, Berkeley

Though she faced significant adversity in her life, her husband, Monroe, died when she was 43, and chronic physical challenges, she contributed to the political and artistic life of her community.

The New York Times

In an August 2011 commentary in Science, Center Director Jack P. Shonkoff makes the case for scientists, practitioners, and policymakers to work together to design and test creative new interventions that mitigate the harmful effects of significant adversity in early childhood.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

And these two precocious boys, who overcame significant adversities to do incredible things, are not exactly exceptional.

The New York Times

Significant early adversity can lead to lifelong problems.

Harvard University

This is not only because injustice is everywhere but, more significant, because adversity is the sign of election.

The New Yorker

Dr. Woolston has focused his career on creating, implementing and improving clinical programs designed to treat children and families who are living in significant psychosocial adversity.

Yale University

Abusive parents often do not set out to be abusive, may themselves be subject to significant personal adversity and indeed often find it hard to even acknowledge the harm they have done.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "significant adversity", ensure the context clearly illustrates the considerable nature of the hardship being described. Provide specific examples to emphasize the severity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "significant adversity" to describe minor inconveniences or everyday problems. This phrase should be reserved for situations involving substantial and impactful challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant adversity" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "significant" modifies the noun "adversity". It describes a state of considerable hardship or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Academia

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant adversity" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe substantial hardships or challenges. Ludwig AI's analysis shows that it's frequently found in academic, news, and scientific contexts, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly demonstrates the magnitude of the difficulties being described, and avoid using it for minor inconveniences. Alternatives such as "substantial hardship" or "major challenges" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

substantial hardship

Emphasizes the considerable difficulty or suffering experienced.

considerable difficulty

Focuses on the degree of trouble or problems faced.

major challenges

Highlights the significant obstacles encountered.

profound difficulties

Indicates a deep or intense level of hardship.

severe trials

Emphasizes the harsh or difficult experiences undergone.

intense hardship

Focuses on the high degree of suffering or privation.

extreme adversity

Highlights the utmost level of unfavorable conditions.

notable misfortune

Emphasizes the noteworthy or remarkable instance of bad luck or suffering.

serious difficulties

Focuses on the grave or consequential nature of the problems.

daunting challenges

Highlights challenges that are intimidating or discouraging.

FAQs

How can I use "significant adversity" in a sentence?

You can use "significant adversity" to describe situations where someone faces considerable challenges or hardships. For example: "Despite facing "significant adversity", she achieved her goals."

What are some alternatives to "significant adversity"?

Alternatives include "substantial hardship", "considerable difficulty", or "major challenges", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "significant adversity" in formal writing?

Yes, "significant adversity" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic, scientific, or professional contexts where you need to describe serious challenges or hardships.

What distinguishes "significant adversity" from simply "adversity"?

The adjective "significant" emphasizes that the adversity is substantial and impactful, rather than a minor or trivial challenge. It highlights the considerable nature of the hardship.