Difficult: meaning, definitions and examples
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difficult
[ˈdɪfɪkəlt ]
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.
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| challenging |
This word has a slightly positive connotation, suggesting that the task is stimulating and provides a test of one’s abilities. It is commonly used in contexts where overcoming the difficulty can be rewarding.
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| 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'.
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| 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.
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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.
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| arduously |
Employed when describing an action done with a lot of effort over a long period. Often used in more formal writing or speech.
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| laboriously |
Used to describe actions that require a lot of hard work and time, often implying tediousness.
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| painstakingly |
Indicates meticulous attention to detail and extreme care in executing a task. Often positive, showing deep dedication.
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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.
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| 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.
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| obstacle |
Refers to something that obstructs or hinders progress. It suggests a physical or metaphorical barrier that must be overcome.
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| problem |
Indicates a situation, question, or task that needs to be dealt with or solved. It suggests that something is wrong or unsatisfactory.
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Examples of usage
- The difficult of the project was underestimated.
- He faced many difficulties in his new job.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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'.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "difficult" in other languages:
🇵🇹 difícil
🇮🇳 कठिन
🇩🇪 schwierig
🇮🇩 sulit
🇺🇦 важкий
🇵🇱 trudny
🇯🇵 難しい (むずかしい)
🇫🇷 difficile
🇪🇸 difícil
🇹🇷 zor
🇰🇷 어려운 (eoryeoun)
🇸🇦 صعب (sa'b)
🇨🇿 obtížný
🇸🇰 ťažký
🇨🇳 困难 (kùnnán)
🇸🇮 težko
🇮🇸 erfiður
🇰🇿 қиын
🇬🇪 რთული (rtuli)
🇦🇿 çətin
🇲🇽 difícil