this difficult moment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this difficult moment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a challenging or trying time in someone's life or a specific situation. Example: "We must support each other during this difficult moment as we navigate through these challenges together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"Germany stands by your side in this difficult moment," added Mrs. Merkel.

The New York Times

"They have come from overseas to cry with us and support us in this difficult moment".

The New York Times

"Mario Monti has the authority to guide Italy through this difficult moment".

The New York Times

Britain should have tried and helped Greece at this difficult moment.

The Guardian

"Emilia Romagna and Italy will overcome this difficult moment," pledged Italian president Giorgio Napolitano.

The Guardian

"You cannot imagine what that means, to have the trust of our neighbours at this difficult moment," Kanner said.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

We mourn her loss and ask for privacy in this very difficult moment".

Independent

The cardinal said he could not deviate from his prepared remarks because "in this particularly difficult moment, I cannot improvise".

The New York Times

So she had multiple sources of conviction that helped at least carry her through this very difficult moment, and ultimately, that won the day.

Harvard Business Review

"In some ways, this most difficult moment for Al Gore has turned out to be his finest hour," Mr. Klain said on NBC's "Today".

The New York Times

"For many it plays a double role of supplementing lost income and creating a protective web at this particularly difficult moment in their lives," says Yiannis Grigoriou, a UK-educated sociologist among the network's founders.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this difficult moment", ensure the context is clear to the audience. Specify what makes the moment difficult to avoid ambiguity and enhance the message's impact. Providing context allows for a more empathetic and understanding response.

Common error

Avoid using "this difficult moment" as a generic phrase without specifying the nature of the difficulty. Vague usage can dilute the message and fail to resonate with the audience. Always provide specific details to enhance clarity and relevance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this difficult moment" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" is an adjective modifying the noun "moment". It is used to identify a specific period characterized by hardship or challenge, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

18%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this difficult moment" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a challenging time. As affirmed by Ludwig, it's versatility makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Business, and Academic spheres. To maximize its impact, specify the difficulty to ensure clarity and avoid generic usage. Consider alternatives like "this challenging time" or "this tough period" to suit the formality of the context. By providing sufficient context and avoiding overuse, you can effectively convey empathy and support during trying times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this challenging time

Replaces "difficult" with "challenging", emphasizing the demanding nature of the situation.

this tough period

Substitutes "difficult" with "tough" and "moment" with "period", suggesting an extended duration of hardship.

this testing time

Replaces "difficult" with "testing", focusing on the aspect of being put to the test or facing a trial.

these trying circumstances

Employs more formal language, replacing "difficult moment" with "trying circumstances" to denote a set of adverse conditions.

this adverse situation

Replaces "difficult moment" with "adverse situation", focusing on the unfavorable nature of the circumstances.

this demanding phase

Replaces "difficult" with "demanding" and "moment" with "phase", highlighting the rigorous and taxing nature of the situation.

this uneasy period

Conveys a sense of discomfort and anxiety associated with the time by using "uneasy period".

this critical juncture

Uses "critical juncture" to highlight a turning point or decisive moment that is also challenging.

this precarious situation

Emphasizes the instability and uncertainty of the moment by using "precarious situation".

this grim hour

Emphasizes the severity and somber nature of the situation with "grim hour".

FAQs

What are some alternatives to saying "this difficult moment"?

You can use alternatives like "this challenging time", "this tough period", or "these trying circumstances" depending on the context.

How can I use "this difficult moment" effectively in a sentence?

To use "this difficult moment" effectively, provide specific context about the situation you are referring to. For example, "In this difficult moment, we must support each other" clarifies the need for solidarity during a specific hardship.

Is "this difficult moment" formal or informal?

"This difficult moment" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "this adverse situation".

What's the difference between "this difficult moment" and "this difficult time"?

While both phrases are similar, "this difficult moment" typically refers to a specific, acute period of hardship, whereas "this difficult time" can refer to a more prolonged or general period of difficulty.