a difficult choice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult choice" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a decision that is challenging or has significant consequences. Example: "Choosing between two job offers was a difficult choice for her to make."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is a difficult choice.

The Economist

It was a difficult choice.

The New York Times - Arts

Fans have a difficult choice.

The New York Times - Sports

Republicans would then face a difficult choice.

The New York Times

Women will face a difficult choice.

The New York Times

City officials faced a difficult choice.

The New York Times

They also have a difficult choice.

Independent

• Underwater homeowners clearly face a difficult choice.

The New York Times

The government faces a difficult choice.

The New York Times

The Red Sox had a difficult choice.

The New York Times - Sports

But it now faces a difficult choice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use precise language to describe the nature of the difficulty. Is it due to conflicting values, uncertain outcomes, or high stakes?

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "a difficult choice" as a cliché. Ensure that the difficulty of the choice is apparent to the reader, not just stated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult choice" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It describes a decision that is not easy to make, often involving complex considerations or conflicting options. Ludwig AI affirms this common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a difficult choice" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase to describe a challenging decision-making process. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability in various contexts. It’s most frequently found in news and media sources. While versatile, writers should ensure the difficulty is justified and not merely stated. Consider alternatives like "a tough decision" or "a challenging decision" to add nuance. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "a difficult choice" to convey the complexities of decision-making in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tough decision

This alternative uses "tough" instead of "difficult", conveying a similar sense of challenge but with a slightly more informal tone.

a hard decision

This alternative uses "hard" instead of "difficult", indicating a similar level of difficulty or unpleasantness.

a challenging decision

This alternative uses "challenging" instead of "difficult", emphasizing the demanding nature of the decision.

a problematic decision

This alternative uses "problematic" instead of "difficult", highlighting the potential issues or complications associated with the decision.

a complex decision

This alternative uses "complex" instead of "difficult", focusing on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the decision.

a tough call

This alternative is more informal, using "call" instead of "choice" or "decision", and is often used in spoken English.

a dilemma

This alternative refers to a situation where one must choose between two equally unfavorable options.

a predicament

This alternative highlights the difficult or dangerous situation that requires a decision.

a quandary

This alternative indicates a state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation.

a hard row to hoe

This alternative is an idiom signifying a challenging task or situation, often requiring significant effort and perseverance.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "a difficult choice"?

Alternatives include "a tough decision", "a hard decision", "a challenging decision", or "a complex decision", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I make it clear why a choice is "a difficult choice" in my writing?

Provide specific details about the conflicting factors, potential consequences, or the uncertainty surrounding the outcomes. Show, don't just tell, the difficulty.

Is "a difficult choice" formal or informal?

It's generally considered neutral and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific audience and purpose of your writing. Alternatives like "a tough call" might be more suitable for informal settings.

Can "a difficult choice" be used in all types of writing?

Yes, it's versatile and can be used in various types of writing, including news articles, academic papers, and creative writing, as long as the context justifies the description of the choice as difficult.