Synonyms for

Difficult

Verb / ˈdɪfʌkʌlt / Another word for difficult — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Difficult means something that is not easy or requires effort to accomplish.

Synonyms & similar words

hard unmanageable easy manageable hard challenging tricky demanding arduous tough problematic complex involved knotty baffling perplexing puzzling troublesome onerous burdensome onerous labored painful unmanageable

Synonyms by register

Formal

arduous onerous complex challenging

Informal

tough tricky hard no walk in the park

Literary

perilous onerous trying

Antonyms

easy simple straightforward manageable effortless plain

Common collocations

  • difficult to understand
  • difficult to explain
  • difficult decision
  • difficult situation
  • difficult task
  • difficult time
  • difficult to manage

Word family

noun difficulty
adverb difficultly

Usage note

While 'difficult' can describe a task or situation, 'difficulty' is the noun form. Be mindful of using 'difficultly' as an adverb, as it is less common than 'with difficulty'.

Example sentences

  1. The test was very difficult.
  2. It was difficult to find my way in the dark.
  3. I had a difficult time learning to ride a bike.
  4. Cooking a three-course meal can be difficult.
  5. The job interview was difficult but I did my best.

Quotes

  • The difficult we do immediately. The impossible takes a little longer. - David Ben-Gurion
  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. - Nelson Mandela
  • Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body. - Seneca

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