strained times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strained times" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe periods of difficulty, hardship, or challenges in various contexts, such as personal, social, or economic situations. Example: "During these strained times, many families are struggling to make ends meet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This fake story is indicative of the strained times we are trying so hard to survive.

The Guardian - Opinion

This creates a structural impediment to the free flow of liquidity in strained times, argues Ken Froot of Harvard Business School, because when dealers pull in their horns they are unable to function properly as market-makers.

The Economist

But they appear unfair to many in these fiscally strained times, not least because they are beyond the reach of small, domestic firms.In this section Out of control Can't pay, won't pay Beyond cows A test of will Now, make money Transfer policing Inverse logic Leaving dead presidents in peace ReprintsIt is only natural that companies take advantage of the gaps.

The Economist

Bush didn't bring the Iron Curtain down single-handedly it's true, but her song was certainly part of the evolution in thinking that eventually destroyed barriers and reunited the people of Europe – and could do in these strained times once again.

The Guardian - Opinion

IN THESE fiscally strained times, those seen as not paying their fair share are obvious targets.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

For all this, the advent of the 60's, with the ascent of rock and soul, was a strained time in his career.

The New York Times

The treaty confrontation comes at a highly strained time between President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin over Russia's intervention in Ukraine and Putin's grant of asylum to National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden.

Independent

The BookShots scheme sounds like a call to revolt against this reign of obesity, and significant numbers of weary, eye-strained, time-poor readers may be willing to rally to Patterson's "Back to Poe" banner – even though it also means, rather paradoxically, still more books authored or co-authored by him pouring out into the world each month.

The Guardian - Books

Heatley stayed on in Illinois for several months, supposedly to work in collaboration with his American counterpart Dr Andrew Moyer on the project, but relations between the two men were rather strained at times, since Heatley found Moyer secretive and uncommunicative.

The Guardian

In these strained economic times it is a win-win situation.

Huffington Post

There is a reasonable level of dialogue, albeit quite strained at times.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "strained times", provide specific context to illustrate the nature of the strain, whether it's financial, emotional, or social. For example: "During these strained times, the community has come together to support local businesses".

Common error

Avoid using "strained times" as a generic placeholder for any difficulty. Ensure it accurately reflects a period of significant pressure or tension. Be specific: instead of just saying "these are strained times", explain what makes them so.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strained times" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. The adjective "strained" describes the noun "times", indicating a period characterized by pressure, tension, or difficulty. Ludwig examples illustrate this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strained times" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe periods marked by significant pressure or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, showing it's most often found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. While semantically similar to "difficult times", "strained times" implies a higher degree of tension or pressure on resources. To avoid overuse, it’s essential to provide specific context when using this phrase to accurately depict the nature of the challenges being faced. By considering these factors, writers can effectively use "strained times" to convey the intensity and complexities of challenging periods.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult periods

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the times.

challenging moments

Highlights the demanding aspect of the situation.

tough circumstances

Focuses on the adverse conditions present.

hard times

A more general term for difficult experiences.

trying circumstances

Emphasizes the testing nature of the situation.

precarious situations

Highlights the instability and risk involved.

tense moments

Focuses on the heightened tension and anxiety.

critical junctures

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the times.

demanding phases

Highlights the heavy demands and pressures.

stressful situations

Focuses on the high levels of stress and anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "strained times" in a sentence?

You can use "strained times" to describe periods of difficulty or hardship, such as "In these "strained times", many families are struggling financially".

What's a good alternative to "strained times"?

Alternatives include "difficult periods", "challenging moments", or "tough circumstances", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "strained times"?

Yes, "strained times" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe periods of hardship or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability.

What makes "strained times" different from "difficult times"?

"Strained times" often implies a higher degree of pressure and tension, whereas "difficult times" can refer to any challenging period. "Strained" suggests resources or relationships are under duress.