twice as hard

USAGE SUMMARY

"twice as hard" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in comparison to indicate that one thing is twice as difficult or challenging as another thing. For example: - "Studying for the final exam is twice as hard as studying for the midterm." - "Moving the heavy furniture by myself was twice as hard as I thought it would be." - "Running a marathon is twice as hard as running a half marathon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

One has to work twice as hard".

The Guardian - Film

Work twice as hard as the guys?

The Guardian - Money

"Everyone's still working, twice as hard now".

The Guardian

Yankees fans will have to cheer twice as hard today.

The New York Times

Sure, a woman has to try twice as hard.

The New York Times

Work twice as hard, was the standard advice.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

"You have to work twice as hard to be seen as the same," Paul says.

Forbes

"We'll just have to work twice as hard to fill it back up again".

Independent

If you're not able to recuperate, then you'll get it back twice as hard!

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

But if you come from an immigrant community, it can be twice as hard.

The Guardian

That's why at 72, he still plays twice as hard as any horn man out there.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "twice as hard" to compare efforts or challenges, ensure the comparison is clear and specific. For instance, instead of saying 'I had to work "twice as hard",' specify what you are comparing it to: 'I had to work "twice as hard" this year compared to last year to achieve the same results.'

Common error

A common mistake is using "twice as hard" without a clear reference point. For example, saying 'Life is "twice as hard" now' is vague. Specify what makes it harder, such as 'Life is "twice as hard" now due to the increased cost of living'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "twice as hard" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, describing the extent or degree to which an action is performed or a quality is present. As Ludwig AI demonstrates, it quantifies effort relative to a baseline.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "twice as hard" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to emphasize significantly increased effort or difficulty. Ludwig AI shows that it functions as an adverbial modifier, enhancing descriptions across various contexts, from news reports to scientific articles. When using this phrase, ensure clear comparison and avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like ""doubly difficult"" or ""significantly more challenging"" for stylistic variation. Remember that effective communication with "twice as hard" depends on clearly establishing the basis for comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doubly difficult

Emphasizes the increased level of difficulty.

significantly more challenging

Highlights the considerable increase in the level of challenge.

much more strenuous

Focuses on the greater amount of effort and energy required.

considerably more demanding

Stresses the increased demands and requirements.

far more arduous

Emphasizes the greater level of difficulty and effort required.

with double the effort

Highlights the need to apply double the amount of effort.

with increased intensity

Focuses on the higher level of intensity required.

at double the speed

Focuses on performing an action at twice the rate. It is less about effort but is related

with twice the force

Emphasizes the increased physical power or impact.

amped up effort

Highlights the amplification of one's efforts.

FAQs

How can I use "twice as hard" in a sentence?

Use "twice as hard" to indicate a significantly greater effort or difficulty compared to something else. For example, "After the setback, the team had to work "twice as hard" to catch up".

What's a good alternative to saying "twice as hard"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "doubly difficult", "significantly more challenging", or "much more strenuous".

Is it grammatically correct to say "twice as hardly" instead of "twice as hard"?

No, "twice as hardly" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is ""twice as hard"". "Hardly" has a different meaning, implying 'barely' or 'scarcely'.

What's the difference between "twice as hard" and "twice as much"?

"Twice as hard" refers to the intensity of effort or difficulty, while "twice as much" refers to quantity or amount. For example, you work "twice as hard" but you earn "twice as much" money.