Synonyms for

Difficulty

Verb / ˈdɪfʌkʌlti: / / ˈdɪfɪˌkʌlti: / Another word for difficulty — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the state or quality of being difficult; the degree of effort or skill needed to do something

Synonyms & similar words

trouble difficultness ease challenge hardship obstacle problem struggle trouble hardness rigor complexity arduousness demandingness recalcitrance resistance stiffness awkwardness cumbersomeness inconvenience pain soreness torment

Synonyms by register

Formal

hardship adversity challenge complication

Informal

trouble hassle hitch pickle

Literary

tribulation ordeal struggle

Antonyms

ease simplicity facility success advantage smoothness plainness

Common collocations

  • great difficulty
  • some difficulty
  • difficulty breathing
  • difficulty understanding
  • difficulty sleeping
  • difficulty concentrating
  • difficulty level
  • face difficulty

Word family

noun difficulty
adjective difficult

Usage note

Often used with 'in' to specify the area of difficulty, e.g., 'difficulty in understanding'. Can also be used with 'with', e.g., 'difficulty with math'.

Example sentences

  1. The test was full of difficulty.
  2. I had difficulty understanding the instructions.
  3. He faced great difficulty in finding a job.
  4. The hike was a challenge due to the difficulty of the terrain.
  5. I had difficulty deciding which ice cream flavor to choose.

Quotes

  • Every difficulty in life presents us with an opportunity to turn inward and to invoke our own submerged inner resources. The trials we endure can and should introduce us to our strengths.
  • The greatest difficulty always comes right before the birth of a dream.
  • Difficulty is the excuse history never accepts.

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