Hard Tasks

with difficulty or extra effort

I can finish the project by tomorrow, but it will be at a push, and I'll need to work late into the night.

to start to deal with an inevitable challenge or difficulty

I know she's disappointed to have not gotten her dream job, but the sooner she bites the bullet and accepts it, the sooner she can move on.

something so unpleasant that a person has to struggle to accept it

Having to seek his foe's aid was a bitter pill to take.

not difficult in words compared to how difficult it can be in practice

Why don't you just ask your boss for a raise?

a situation that is complicated, awkward, or annoying

We were hoping for a smooth family gathering, but with all the arguments and tensions, it turned out to be a fine kettle of fish.

someone or something that is difficult to understand, deal with, or overcome

The negotiator encountered a hard nut during the business deal, as the opposing party refused to compromise on any terms.

used to say that something is very difficult and one will need to put a lot of effort into doing it

The team has their work cut out for them as they prepare for the championship match against the strongest opponents in the league.

used to express a sense of uncertainty or nervousness before attempting something

Before stepping onto the stage for her first solo performance, the nervous singer took a deep breath and muttered, "Here goes nothing.

to try to do something that is very unlikely to accomplish

The goods have to be returned to their rightful owner and getting money back from the seller is like getting blood out of a stone.

to be very successful that demands a lot of hard work in order to be outdone or surpassed

His performance in the championship game was exceptional and will take some beating by any future players in the same sport.

a very difficult or unreasonable request

Completing the entire project by tomorrow is a tall order considering the amount of work involved and the tight deadline.

used to emphasize that doing something is not easy at all

Taking care of a newborn baby is no picnic.It requires constant attention, sleepless nights, and a lot of patience.