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Region: US | Usage example: Delivering this in a day is a tall order.

Tall order

Meaning

A tough challenge.

Usage

Used when warning about difficulty.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Tallness symbolizing magnitude.

American expression from the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Get your house in order

Resolve internal problems before facing external challenges.

Hang in there

Persevere through tough times.

When push comes to shove

When a situation becomes critical and tough choices are needed.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.