tall order

Idioms and Phrases

A goal that is hard to fulfill or achieve, as in Getting a thousand new subscribers is a tall order indeed . This expression uses tall in the sense of “impressively great” or “difficult.” [c. 1900]

Example Sentences

It really isn't a tall order to scare Americans these days, and in particular our delicate representatives in Washington.

From The Daily Beast

This is a tall order, especially for a president even Sen. Dianne Feinstein calls “too cautious.”

From The Daily Beast

Taking appropriate care of a broken leg in a cast can be a tall order for a young girl.

From The Daily Beast

If they can work something out there, even then I think a broader solution is a pretty tall order, no?

From The Daily Beast

We were given a reprieve but it was still quite a tall order.

From The Daily Beast

It is a pretty tall order, my friends, and be careful lest you who would destroy be not destroyed.

From Project Gutenberg

Two men being killed on one horse seems rather a tall order, yet it is perfectly true.

From Project Gutenberg

That was a tall order, and in spite of all of youth's enthusiasm was enough to make any young fellow nervous.

From Project Gutenberg

“A tall order that,” said Cleek with one of his curious, one-sided smiles.

From Project Gutenberg

It was a tall order, that; but as the bridge was up there was no other way.

From Project Gutenberg