steep hill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "steep hill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a hill that has a sharp incline or slope, often indicating difficulty in climbing or descending. Example: "The hikers struggled to reach the top of the steep hill, panting heavily as they ascended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Wiki

Science Magazine

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bonnie wants to climb a steep hill.

The New Yorker

We came to a steep hill.

The New Yorker

A steep hill does not entice me.

The New York Times

Down a steep hill, a road.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Between the two was a steep hill.

The Guardian

"They certainly have a steep hill here to climb".

The New York Times - Sports

That is a steep hill in today's Washington.

The New York Times

We disembarked and began to hike up a steep hill.

The New Yorker

"That was a pretty steep hill to climb".

The New York Times

Navigated down a steep hill and there it lay.

The New York Times

It's a steep hill, and it's a huge challenge.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use precise language to enhance the description of the "steep hill". For example, specify its surface type, location, and its impact on those who traverse it.

Common error

Avoid using "steep hill" metaphorically if the connection to a difficult challenge is unclear or absent. Ensure the context supports the metaphorical comparison to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "steep hill" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "steep" modifies the noun "hill". It describes a specific type of geographical feature. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science & Research

7%

Science Magazine

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "steep hill" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a geographical feature with a significant incline. As Ludwig confirms, it functions as a noun phrase and can be used both literally and metaphorically to represent challenges. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, from News & Media to Science, though the frequency analysis shows it appears most often in news. When using "steep hill", consider the clarity of its metaphorical connection and ensure the context supports the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp incline

Focuses on the angle of the slope rather than the overall landform.

precipitous slope

Emphasizes the steepness and potential danger of the descent or ascent.

sheer rise

Highlights the abruptness and verticality of the terrain.

challenging ascent

Shifts the focus to the difficulty of climbing the hill.

difficult climb

Similar to challenging ascent, emphasizing the act of climbing.

arduous incline

Stresses the laboriousness and effort required for the upward slope.

formidable gradient

Emphasizes the steepness as a mathematical concept or challenge.

imposing hill

Highlights the grandeur and size of the hill rather than its steepness.

significant elevation

Focuses on the change in altitude rather than the shape of the land.

tough proposition

Metaphorically describes a difficult challenge, akin to climbing a steep hill.

FAQs

How can I use "steep hill" in a sentence?

You can use "steep hill" to describe a physical landscape feature, as in, "The cyclists struggled to ascend the steep hill". It can also be used metaphorically to represent a significant challenge, like "Launching a new product is a steep hill to climb".

What are some alternatives to "steep hill"?

Alternatives to "steep hill" include "sharp incline", "precipitous slope", or "challenging ascent", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a steep hill to climb"?

Yes, "a steep hill to climb" is a common idiom that means a difficult or challenging task. It is often used metaphorically to describe situations requiring significant effort.

What's the difference between "steep hill" and "gentle slope"?

"Steep hill" describes a landform with a sharp, challenging incline, while "gentle slope" refers to a gradual, easily navigable incline. They represent opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of difficulty and steepness.