difficult
word
Definition
If something is difficult, it needs a lot of effort, skill, or patience to do, understand, or deal with. It can describe tasks, situations, people, or periods of life.
Usage & Nuances
Very common and neutral. Often used with 'for' ('It was difficult for me'), and with infinitives ('difficult to explain'). For people, 'a difficult person' usually means hard to deal with, not unintelligent. Stronger or more formal alternatives include 'hard', 'challenging', and 'complicated' depending on context.
Example Sentences
This math problem is difficult.
basic
It was difficult for her to find a job.
basic
The teacher gave us a difficult question.
basic
I know this is difficult, but we need to talk about it.
natural
He's a difficult person to work with.
natural
The last few months have been really difficult.
natural