trying time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trying time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a difficult or challenging period in someone's life or circumstances. Example: "After losing her job, she went through a trying time, but she managed to stay positive and look for new opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Yes, this is a trying time.

Independent

It was a trying time.

The New York Times

"It's a trying time for us.

The New York Times - Sports

Of course it's a trying time.

The Guardian - Sport

Alex Rodriguez has had a trying time.

The New York Times - Sports

AUGUST can be a trying time for hardline Eurosceptics.

The Economist

The problem came at a trying time for the company.

The New York Times - Tech

It was an upbeat moment in an otherwise trying time.

The New York Times - Sports

His Holiness the Karmapa, has just come through a trying time.

The New York Times

They stifled Lin, who had a trying time with the feisty 6-foot-6 Vasquez.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

We are in a very trying time but in trying times, miracles can happen.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "trying time", be specific about the nature of the difficulty to provide context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

While "trying time" is acceptable, overuse can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "difficult period" or "challenging phase" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trying time" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "trying" modifies the noun "time". It describes a specific period or moment characterized by difficulty or hardship. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

11%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trying time" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a period marked by difficulties and challenges. As evidenced by the numerous examples found by Ludwig, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is appropriate, it's important to consider synonyms like "difficult period" or "challenging phase" to avoid repetition and enhance clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage, ensuring writers can confidently incorporate it into their vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult period

Replaces "trying" with a more common synonym, focusing on the difficulty of the time.

challenging phase

Emphasizes the challenging nature of the situation, framing it as a temporary phase.

tough moment

Highlights the difficulty of a specific moment within a larger timeframe.

hardship

Focuses on the suffering and difficulty experienced during the time.

testing circumstances

Highlights the circumstances that put someone or something to the test.

arduous experience

Implies a difficult and prolonged experience.

demanding situation

Stresses the high demands and pressures involved in the situation.

time of adversity

Highlights the presence of misfortune and hardship.

period of difficulty

A more formal and general way of expressing a challenging time.

unfavorable circumstances

Focuses on the negative and disadvantageous conditions.

FAQs

What does "trying time" mean?

A "trying time" refers to a period characterized by difficulties, challenges, or stress. It suggests a situation that tests one's resilience and ability to cope.

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

You can use "trying time" to describe a personal or collective experience. For example, "The company faced a "trying time" during the economic recession."

What can I say instead of "trying time"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult period", "challenging phase", or "tough moment" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "trying times" instead of "trying time"?

Yes, "trying times" is also correct. It emphasizes the recurring or prolonged nature of the difficulties, while ""trying time"" can refer to a specific instance or period.