Difficulty: meaning, definitions and examples

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difficulty

[ 'dɪfɪkəlti ]

^{Context #1}

level of complexity

The state or quality of being difficult. It can refer to the degree of challenge or complexity involved in a task or situation.

Synonyms

challenge, complexity, hardship

Examples of usage

The difficulty of the exam surprised many students.
She was not prepared for the level of difficulty in the game.

^{Context #2}

problem or obstacle

A problem or obstacle that hinders progress or success. It can also refer to a state of being hard to deal with.

Synonyms

hurdle, issue, obstacle

Examples of usage

One of the difficulties we faced was lack of funding.
Overcoming this difficulty will require teamwork and creativity.

^{Context #3}

lack of ease

The absence of ease or comfort. It can refer to a feeling of discomfort or unease.

Synonyms

awkwardness, discomfort, unease

Examples of usage

She handled the situation with grace despite the difficulty of the circumstances.
There was a noticeable difficulty in his voice as he spoke about the loss.

Translations

Translations of the word "difficulty" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dificuldade

🇮🇳 कठिनाई

🇩🇪 Schwierigkeit

🇮🇩 kesulitan

🇺🇦 складність

🇵🇱 trudność

🇯🇵 難しさ (むずかしさ)

🇫🇷 difficulté

🇪🇸 dificultad

🇹🇷 zorluk

🇰🇷 어려움

🇸🇦 صعوبة

🇨🇿 obtížnost

🇸🇰 ťažkosť

🇨🇳 难度 (nándù)

🇸🇮 težavnost

🇮🇸 erfiðleiki

🇰🇿 қиындық

🇬🇪 სირთულე

🇦🇿 çətinlik

🇲🇽 dificultad

Word origin

The word 'difficulty' originated from the Latin word 'difficul(t)as', which means 'hardship' or 'trouble'. Over time, it evolved to encompass the concept of challenges and obstacles. The use of 'difficulty' in English dates back to the 14th century, where it was used to describe the state of being hard to accomplish. Throughout history, the word has been associated with adversity and struggle, reflecting the inherent challenges of life.