slightly arduous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly arduous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or activity that is somewhat challenging or demanding, but not overwhelmingly so. Example: "The hike was slightly arduous, but the breathtaking views at the top made it worthwhile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

All this time-gazing can become slightly arduous and the forward-back rhythm can become monotonous at times.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It also work with the PS3 and Xbox via slightly more arduous manual pairing with the iOS application.

TechCrunch

Twitter users who fall foul of its new automated malicious behavior checks can expect to have to pass some sort of 'no, actually I am human' test — which it says will "vary in intensity", giving examples such as a simple reCAPTCHA process, at the lowest friction end, or a slightly more arduous password reset request.

TechCrunch

— far more arduous.

The New York Times

The conditions were arduous.

Independent

Second, clinical trials are arduous.

The Economist

"But it is arduous".

The New York Times

Economists 12. Arduous 13.

The New York Times

That proved arduous.

The New York Times

Oh, nothing too arduous.

The Guardian - Film

Well, not that arduous.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly arduous" when you want to convey that something requires effort and endurance, but isn't overwhelmingly difficult. It's more nuanced than simply saying "difficult".

Common error

Avoid using "slightly arduous" in very casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "a bit tough" or "somewhat challenging" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly arduous" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. The adverb "slightly" softens the intensity of the adjective "arduous", indicating a task or situation that is somewhat challenging but not excessively so. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly arduous" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes something as somewhat difficult or challenging. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys a nuanced level of effort, suitable for various contexts, particularly news and media. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a valid and effective way to describe something that is somewhat difficult or taxing without being overwhelmingly so, and simpler alternatives might be more appropriate in informal contexts. The phrase's authoritative usage and clear meaning make it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat challenging

Replaces "slightly arduous" with a more general term for difficulty.

a bit taxing

Uses "taxing" instead of "arduous", implying a draining effect.

slightly taxing

Replaces "arduous" with "taxing" to express a draining effect.

moderately difficult

Emphasizes the level of difficulty in a more direct way.

relatively strenuous

Focuses on the effort required, suggesting it's not extremely demanding.

mildly laborious

Uses "laborious" to highlight the effort, but qualifies it with "mildly".

somewhat demanding

Highlights the demands placed on someone, without suggesting extreme difficulty.

a little tough

Uses a more informal term "tough" for difficulty, suitable for casual contexts.

not too easy

Emphasizes the lack of easiness instead of directly stating difficulty.

a touch trying

Suggests a small degree of strain or annoyance.

FAQs

What does "slightly arduous" mean?

The phrase "slightly arduous" describes something that is somewhat difficult, strenuous, or taxing, but not to an extreme degree. It implies a moderate level of effort is required.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "slightly arduous"?

It's suitable in contexts where you want to convey that something is not easy, but also not overwhelmingly challenging. It works well in both formal and semi-formal settings.

What are some alternative phrases to "slightly arduous"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat challenging", "a bit taxing", or "moderately difficult" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "slightly arduous" the same as "very difficult"?

No, "slightly arduous" indicates a lower level of difficulty than "very difficult". The word "slightly" moderates the intensity of "arduous", making it less severe.