tall order
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A task or requirement that is very difficult to fulfill or achieve; a formidable or demanding challenge.
Usage
The phrase "tall order" is used to describe a request, goal, or task that is exceptionally demanding or seems almost impossible to accomplish. It emphasizes the difficulty and scale of the challenge.
Examples
- Noun:
- Asking the team to complete the project in one week is a tall order.
- Finding a solution that pleases everyone is a tall order.
- Finishing in time was a tall order, but we did it.
Advanced Usage
- "to be a tall order": This is the standard construction. It is often used with verbs like , , or .
- Getting unanimous approval will be a tall order.
- "to fill/meet a tall order": This variant describes successfully accomplishing the difficult task.
- The new manager has filled a tall order by turning the department around.
Variants and Related Words
- Demanding task: A simpler, more direct synonym.
- Herculean task: An idiom with a similar meaning, implying a task requiring great strength or effort, like the labors of Hercules.
Synonyms
- Formidable task: A task that inspires fear or respect due to its difficulty.
- Daunting challenge: A challenge that is intimidating or discouraging.
- Stiff requirement: A very strict or difficult requirement.
Related Idioms
- A big ask: (Informal) A request that is difficult to fulfill.
- Funding the entire project ourselves is a big ask.
- A tough/long haul: A difficult or lengthy effort.
- Recovering from the injury will be a tough haul.
Noun
- a formidable task or requirement
- finishing in time was a tall order but we did it