torrid time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "torrid time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period of intense difficulty, stress, or emotional turmoil. Example: "After the sudden loss of her job, she went through a torrid time trying to make ends meet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She had a torrid time.

Independent

Other equipment makers are having a torrid time, too.

The Economist

If they don't, we are in for a torrid time".

The Guardian

But she faces a torrid time from her party.

The Guardian

But Truffaut had a torrid time of it.

The Guardian - Film

It has been a torrid time for TV auteurs.

The Guardian

4.45pm: Charl Schwartzel's had a torrid time of late.

The Guardian - Sport

Corbyn and Watson are going to have a torrid time.

The Guardian

"It was a torrid time back in 1977.

The Guardian - Sport

After an uneasy few weeks, the world's main stockmarkets had a less torrid time.

The Economist

Bellerin is having an impressive season but he was given a torrid time by Douglas Costa.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "torrid time", ensure the context clearly indicates a period of intense difficulty, stress, or emotional turmoil. It is most effective when describing situations that involve significant challenges and negative experiences.

Common error

Avoid using "torrid time" to describe minor inconveniences or slight difficulties. This phrase carries a strong connotation of severe hardship, and using it inappropriately can diminish its impact and appear melodramatic. Opt for milder alternatives like "difficult period" or "challenging experience" for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "torrid time" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition to describe a period characterized by intense difficulty, suffering, or hardship. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "torrid time" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe a period of intense difficulty, stress, or emotional turmoil. Ludwig AI confirms this, with numerous examples drawn from reputable sources like The Guardian, Independent and BBC. While versatile, it's best suited for situations involving significant hardships rather than minor inconveniences. Consider alternatives like "difficult period" or "challenging experience" for milder situations. Remember that while "torrid time" can be appropriate for news and media, and some professional contexts, it is not a common usage in academic writing. Its purpose is to communicate the experience of a particularly challenging period. "Torrid Time" is marked as Very common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult period

Focuses on the difficulty of the period, omitting the intensity suggested by "torrid".

challenging experience

Highlights the challenging nature of the experience, downplaying the negative connotations.

rough patch

An informal idiom indicating a temporary period of difficulty.

trying circumstances

Emphasizes the difficult circumstances surrounding the situation.

hardship

A more formal term emphasizing the suffering and deprivation involved.

time of adversity

A formal and somewhat literary phrase emphasizing the challenging and unfavorable conditions.

unpleasant experience

General term indicating an experience was negative, but omitting intensity of "torrid".

tough situation

Focuses on the difficulty of the situation, without the emotional intensity.

period of suffering

Emphasizes the suffering endured during the period, a more intense and emotional phrasing.

ordeal

Highlights the difficult and painful nature of the experience, suggesting a severe trial.

FAQs

How can I use "torrid time" in a sentence?

"Torrid time" is used to describe a period of intense difficulty or suffering. For example, "After the company's collapse, he went through a "torrid time" trying to find a new job".

What can I say instead of "torrid time"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult period", "challenging experience", or "rough patch" depending on the context.

Is "torrid time" a formal or informal expression?

"Torrid time" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in news and media than in academic writing.

What's the difference between "torrid time" and "difficult time"?

"Torrid time" suggests a more intense and emotionally challenging period than "difficult time". "Torrid" implies a higher degree of suffering and turmoil.