[be] murder
1
(of a task) to be very difficult or almost impossible to do or complete
The idiom "be murder" is used to describe a task, situation, or experience that is extremely difficult, challenging, or unpleasant. The expression originated in the early 19th century and draws its metaphorical meaning from the act of committing murder, which is considered one of the most wicked and difficult acts to do.
- Trying to assemble the complicated furniture without the instructions was murder.It took hours of trial and error to put it together correctly.
- Dealing with a difficult boss can be murder.Their constant demands and criticism make the workplace extremely stressful.
- The long hours and physical labor required for the construction project were murder on the workers.They were exhausted by the end of each day.
- Balancing work and family commitments can be murder.It's challenging to find enough time and energy for both.
- Learning a new language from scratch can be murder.The grammar rules, vocabulary, and pronunciation can be overwhelming for beginners.