Type any word!

A tall order Meaning in English

expression

ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈtɔɫ/ /ˈɔɹdɝ
uh TAWL OR-der
æɪ/ /tˈɔːl/ /ˈɔːdɐ
uh TAWL AW-duh

Definition

Used to describe something that is very difficult to do or achieve, often more than what is reasonable to expect.

Usage & Nuances

Informal, often used in both spoken and written English when talking about hard-to-achieve expectations or tasks. Common with 'that’s', 'proving', or 'quite'—as in 'That’s a tall order.' Do not confuse with regular 'order' (asking for something).

Example Sentences

Finishing all this work in one day is a tall order.

basic

Winning against the champion is a tall order for our team.

basic

For a child, reading a 500-page book can be a tall order.

basic

Convincing her to change her mind is a tall order, but you can try.

natural

Getting everyone to agree here is going to be a tall order.

natural

That’s a tall order even for someone as talented as you.

natural