Difficult Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
difficult
[หdษชfษชkษlt ]
Definitions
to describe a challenging task
Needing much effort or skill to accomplish, deal with, or understand.
Synonyms
challenging, hard, tough.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| difficult |
This word implies that something requires a lot of effort or skill to do or solve. It is mostly neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
|
| challenging |
This word has a slightly positive connotation, suggesting that the task is stimulating and provides a test of oneโs abilities. It is commonly used in contexts where overcoming the difficulty can be rewarding.
|
| hard |
Similar to 'difficult', but can sometimes feel more intense and is often used in more conversational and informal contexts. It can also describe physical properties like in 'hard rock'.
|
| tough |
This word is often used to describe a situation that not only requires effort or skill but also endurance and resilience. It carries a slightly stronger emotional weight and can imply an element of harshness.
|
Examples of usage
- It was a difficult decision to make.
- She found the exam questions very difficult.
- The climbing route was difficult but rewarding.
to describe a task that is not easily done
In a way that requires much effort or skill.
Synonyms
arduously, laboriously, painstakingly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| difficult |
Used to describe something that requires a lot of effort or skill to accomplish.
|
| arduously |
Employed when describing an action done with a lot of effort over a long period. Often used in more formal writing or speech.
|
| laboriously |
Used to describe actions that require a lot of hard work and time, often implying tediousness.
|
| painstakingly |
Indicates meticulous attention to detail and extreme care in executing a task. Often positive, showing deep dedication.
|
Examples of usage
- She completed the puzzle difficultly.
- He spoke English difficultly.
to describe a problem or situation that is hard to deal with
A situation or problem that is hard to deal with or understand.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| difficult |
Used to describe something that requires a lot of effort, skill, or thought to do or understand. It is a general term for anything that is hard to deal with.
|
| challenge |
Often used to describe a task or situation that is perceived positively even though it is difficult, implying a sense of growth or achievement.
|
| obstacle |
Refers to something that obstructs or hinders progress. It suggests a physical or metaphorical barrier that must be overcome.
|
| problem |
Indicates a situation, question, or task that needs to be dealt with or solved. It suggests that something is wrong or unsatisfactory.
|
Examples of usage
- The difficult of the project was underestimated.
- He faced many difficulties in his new job.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often perceive challenges as more difficult when they lack skills or knowledge in a certain area.
- Facing difficult situations can lead to increased resilience and personal growth over time.
- The concept of 'cognitive load' explains how difficult tasks can overwhelm our brain's ability to process information.
Education
- Learning environments that present material as difficult can enhance motivation and perseverance in students.
- Differentiated instruction helps educators address the varying difficulty levels that students face in the classroom.
- Understanding 'difficult' concepts often requires strategic teaching methods, such as scaffolding.
Pop Culture
- Many songs and movies explore themes of overcoming difficulties, portraying hardship as a part of growth.
- Reality TV shows often emphasize difficult challenges to create tension and entertainment for viewers.
- In literature, characters frequently face difficult dilemmas that contribute to their development and the story's conflict.
Philosophy
- The distinction between 'easy' and 'difficult' is often discussed in philosophical texts, pondering the nature of challenges in life.
- Existentialists explore how the difficulties of life are part of the human experience, shaping our choices and values.
- Some philosophies advocate that embracing difficult moments can lead to greater meaning and purpose in life.
Origin of 'difficult'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'difficilis', which means 'hard to do'.
- In Middle English, it evolved to 'difficult', maintaining the meaning of being tough or challenging.
- The prefix 'di-' suggests separation, reinforcing the idea that something can be 'far from easy'.
The word 'difficult' originated from the Latin word 'difficilis', which means 'hard to do'. Over time, the word evolved in English to represent tasks or situations that require effort, skill, or understanding to overcome. The concept of difficulty has been a central theme in various fields, including education, sports, and problem-solving. Understanding and overcoming difficulties is often seen as a path to growth and development.