hard as Chinese algebra

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Very difficult.

Register: humorous

Where it’s used: Used American English
Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Very hard in texture, especially: having a very firm erection.

Register: humorous

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “hard as Chinese algebra” mean?

Very difficult.

Is “hard as Chinese algebra” formal or informal?

hard as Chinese algebra is generally humorous.