triumph over adversity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "triumph over adversity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe overcoming challenges or difficulties in various contexts, such as personal struggles, achievements, or inspirational stories. Example: "Her journey to success is a true testament to her ability to triumph over adversity, proving that determination can lead to great achievements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

It was a triumph over adversity.

The New York Times

They do not mainly triumph over adversity.

The New York Times - Books

What a wonderful triumph over adversity!

The New York Times

Shows are always about triumph over adversity.

The Guardian

ULYSSES S. GRANT: Triumph Over Adversity, 1822-1865.

The New York Times - Books

Some theatergoers, reading that description, no doubt expected an inspirational story of triumph over adversity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Or just some triumph-over-adversity escapism with a happy ending?

Independent

As for Heather, ballroom dancing with a false leg epitomises the triumph-over-adversity that Americans idolise.

The Guardian

October 8 2013 October 13 201313 Jazz has had its share of triumph-over-adversity tales, but few have been as inspirational as that of Harrell.

The New Yorker

Pitts describes this triumph-over-adversity trajectory in his memoir, Step Out on Nothing, and will talk about it during his keynote address.

Johns Hopkins University

In terms of a 'triumph over adversity' story, this one takes some beating.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "triumph over adversity" to add a sense of drama and inspiration to your writing when describing how someone overcame significant challenges.

Common error

While impactful, "triumph over adversity" can become cliché if overused. Vary your language by using synonyms like "overcoming obstacles" or "prevailing against the odds" to maintain freshness in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "triumph over adversity" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It encapsulates the concept of overcoming difficult or challenging circumstances, often used to describe a situation or story.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Academia

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "triumph over adversity" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe overcoming significant challenges and achieving success. Ludwig AI confirms its positive sentiment and wide applicability, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While widely used in News & Media, it is crucial to vary your language to avoid clichés. Consider alternatives such as "overcoming obstacles" or "prevailing against the odds" to add nuance and originality to your writing. The phrase effectively communicates inspiration and highlights resilience and is widely used among various authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Victory over hardship

Replaces "adversity" with a more general term for difficult conditions, focusing on the successful outcome.

Overcoming obstacles

Uses a more active verb and a common noun to express the act of successfully dealing with difficulties.

Prevailing against the odds

Focuses on the improbability of success and the act of succeeding despite it.

Rising above challenges

Emphasizes the act of elevating oneself beyond difficult circumstances.

Conquering difficulties

Uses a stronger verb to highlight the act of mastering and overcoming obstacles.

Success in the face of adversity

Rephrases the concept to emphasize the success achieved specifically because of difficult circumstances.

Triumphing despite setbacks

Highlights the presence of temporary failures or hindrances that were overcome.

Emerging victorious from trials

Implies a period of testing or hardship that leads to a positive outcome.

Achieving success against the odds

Focuses on the accomplishment of success despite unfavorable conditions.

Turning misfortune into fortune

Highlights the transformation of negative circumstances into positive outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "triumph over adversity" in a sentence?

You can use "triumph over adversity" to describe situations where someone has overcome significant challenges to achieve success. For example, "Her life story is a testament to "triumph over adversity", as she overcame poverty and discrimination to become a leading scientist."

What are some alternatives to saying "triumph over adversity"?

Alternatives include "overcoming obstacles", "prevailing against the odds", or "rising above challenges". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "triumph over adversity" in formal writing?

Yes, "triumph over adversity" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when aiming to inspire or highlight significant achievements. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall context of your piece.

What's the difference between "triumph over adversity" and "success story"?

"Triumph over adversity" specifically emphasizes the struggle and challenges overcome, while "success story" is a more general term that can apply even without significant hardship. The former highlights resilience, the latter achievement.