overwhelming difficulty
[/ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmɪŋ ˈdɪfɪkəlti/]
noun phrasepl: overwhelming difficulties
dificuldade avassaladora
1. A problem or challenge so severe, complex, or insurmountable that it causes extreme stress, confusion, or a sense of being unable to cope
The overwhelming difficulty of learning a new language can discourage many students.
A dificuldade avassaladora de aprender um novo idioma pode desanimar muitos estudantes.
2. A situation where obstacles are so numerous or significant that they seem impossible to overcome
The refugees faced overwhelming difficulty in finding shelter and employment.
Os refugiados enfrentaram dificuldade avassaladora em encontrar abrigo e emprego.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, this phrase is used to express sympathy or understanding for someone facing severe challenges. Brazilians often use 'avassaladora' (literally 'sweeping') to convey the totality of the difficulty, while Americans tend to use more casual expressions like 'a nightmare' in everyday speech. The concept emphasizes emotional and psychological impact, not just practical obstacles.
NYC Slang
a real tough nut to crack / a total nightmare
Related Idioms & Phrases
swimming against the tide
between a rock and a hard place
in deep water
a mountain to climb
estar com a corda no pescoço (Brazilian - to be in dire straits)
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