Finesentence logo

Difficult: meaning, definitions and examples

😩
Add to dictionary

difficult

 

[ ˈdɪfɪkəlt ]

Adjective / Adverb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

to describe a challenging task

Needing much effort or skill to accomplish, deal with, or understand.

Synonyms

challenging, hard, tough

Examples of usage

  • It was a difficult decision to make.
  • She found the exam questions very difficult.
  • The climbing route was difficult but rewarding.
Context #2 | Adverb

to describe a task that is not easily done

In a way that requires much effort or skill.

Synonyms

arduously, laboriously, painstakingly

Examples of usage

  • She completed the puzzle difficultly.
  • He spoke English difficultly.
Context #3 | Noun

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

challenge, obstacle, problem

Examples of usage

  • The difficult of the project was underestimated.
  • He faced many difficulties in his new job.

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

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At #554 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.