Be the despair of somebody

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase carries a strong emotional charge, often implying deep disappointment or distress.

Despite his talents, he's the despair of his mentors with his lack of ambition.

Pro Tip 2/3

Using 'the despair of' indicates a negative sentiment towards someone's behavior or situation.

She is the despair of her team, missing deadlines consistently.

Pro Tip 3/3

It's often used hyperbolically to emphasize how challenging someone or something is.

This complicated case is the despair of the detectives.