things got bumpy

USAGE SUMMARY

'things got bumpy' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that has become more difficult or problematic. For example: "We had been doing so well, but then things got bumpy and the project was put on hold."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Then things got bumpy.

The Guardian - Opinion

In New York, when Mr. Rodriguez went off to create Chicama and Pipa, and Mr. DiCataldo became executive chef at Patria, things got bumpy, Mr. DiCataldo said, but they were able to become friendly enough to have a beer at each other's restaurants at the end of the night.

The New York Times

I got so grumpy about it all that I would resist buckling my seat belt, turning off my phone or returning to my seat when things got bumpy. .

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Love is patient, so stay the course when things get bumpy.

Huffington Post

Things will get bumpy during the year but the players are more confident in each other.

The Guardian - Sport

Then the road got bumpy.

The Economist

Things will get bumpier before they even out.

Huffington Post

Sitting in the saddle can still be a bumpy ride, but things got a lot smoother nearly 12 centuries ago, according to a new study.

Science Magazine

Sitting in the saddle can still be a bumpy ride, but things got a lot smoother nearly 12 centuries ago, when a single genetic mutation arising in the medieval United Kingdom and Iceland gave horses their ability to "amble," or walk with a relatively smooth, four-beat rhythm versus a bumpier, more erratic pattern.

Science Magazine

Things, in other words, might get bumpy.One of those bumps was revealed the next day.

The Economist

It might get bumpy," Stefanovic says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things got bumpy" to describe a situation where progress or stability is disrupted by unforeseen difficulties or challenges. It's effective for conveying a sense of unexpected turbulence.

Common error

Avoid using "things got bumpy" in contexts where literal, descriptive language would be more appropriate. Over-reliance on figurative expressions can reduce clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "things got bumpy" is to act as a clause, typically serving as the predicate of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms the usage of this phrase in describing how a situation has become more difficult or unstable. The phrase often indicates a transition from a smoother, more predictable state to one marked by challenges.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science & Research

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things got bumpy" is a phrase used to describe a situation that has encountered unexpected difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness for use in written English. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, though it can also appear in scientific and formal contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best suited for semi-formal communication. If a more formal tone is required, consider alternatives like "the situation deteriorated". Keep in mind its metaphorical nature and avoid overuse in contexts that demand literal descriptions. Remember that it can also be used in a variety of ways.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the ride got rough

This alternative uses a similar metaphor to describe increasing difficulty.

the situation deteriorated

This alternative emphasizes a decline in circumstances.

the situation took a turn for the worse

This alternative indicates a negative change in circumstances.

problems arose

This alternative highlights the emergence of issues.

difficulties emerged

This alternative focuses on the appearance of challenging situations.

troubles began

This alternative points to the commencement of difficulties.

complications developed

This alternative highlights the emergence of intricate problems.

the path became challenging

This alternative emphasizes the increasing difficulty of a course of action.

we hit a snag

This alternative denotes encountering an unexpected obstacle.

the process became arduous

This alternative emphasizes the increasing difficulty of a task.

FAQs

How can I use "things got bumpy" in a sentence?

You can use "things got bumpy" to describe a situation that encountered unexpected difficulties or challenges. For example: "We were making progress, but then "things got bumpy" when the budget was cut."

What's a more formal alternative to "things got bumpy"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "the situation deteriorated" or "difficulties emerged", depending on the specific context.

Is "things got bumpy" appropriate for all types of writing?

While "things got bumpy" is widely understood, it's best suited for informal or semi-formal contexts. Avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language is preferred.

What does it mean when someone says "things got bumpy"?

When someone says ""things got bumpy"", it generally means that a situation became more difficult, unstable, or problematic than it was initially. It implies unexpected challenges or setbacks.