A trying time or transaction (6)

I believe the answer is:

ordeal

'a trying time' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'or transaction' is the wordplay.
'transaction' becomes 'deal' (a deal is a transaction or exchange).
'or'+'deal'='ORDEAL'

(Other definitions for ordeal that I've seen before include "Unpleasant and prolonged experience" , "A tough time or hardship" , "Severly trying experience" , "A difficult and harrowing experience" , "Severely trying experience" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.