a difficult contest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult contest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a competition or challenge that is hard to win or succeed in. Example: "The championship was a difficult contest, with many skilled teams competing for the title."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Mr. Jenkins acknowledges that he is facing a difficult contest.

The New York Times

She faces a difficult contest in the fall, but her victory challenges the suggestion that voters are poised to oust all officeholders.

The New York Times

Ms Aubry, who was the architect of France's 35-hour working week and sits squarely on the left of the party, has at times looked relieved that this would excuse her from a difficult contest.

The Economist

She will need it in what is expected to be a difficult contest against Jonathan L. Bing, 32, a labor lawyer and Democratic state committeeman, who won a four-way primary last month.

The New York Times - Style

However, the New Jersey fighter has never been stopped in his 34-fight career and Chisora is expecting a difficult contest.

BBC

The African side were defeated 5-0 Brazilzin in Wednesday's second match at the Millennium Stadium but Powell had them watched in recent friendlies against Northern Ireland and Scotland and is predicting a difficult contest.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

That maneuver all but guaranteed him a hearty welcome, and was the latest evidence of the attention he is paying to winning support from Hispanics in what is shaping up as a potentially difficult contest for him next year.

The New York Times

But if a pattern of shaded truths or inconsistencies emerges over the coming weeks and months, an already difficult contest could quickly slip beyond the Democrat's grasp.

Los Angeles Times

The result clears the way for Jana to run this contest, and is a blow to CNet, which is left bloodied itself and now faces a difficult proxy contest.

The New York Times

She is trying to win a difficult primary contest, and she desperately needs to defeat Sanders in Nevada and South Carolina.

The New Yorker

Mensch's decision to stand down to move to New York with her family will provide David Cameron with a difficult byelection contest in the marginal Corby seat.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "difficult contest", consider specifying what makes it challenging: strong opponents, complex rules, or high stakes.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "challenging", "demanding", or "arduous" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult contest" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific type of competition or challenge. It typically serves as a subject or object in a sentence, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a difficult contest" describes a competition marked by significant challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and identifies its common usage in News & Media. While synonymous alternatives like "a challenging competition" or "a tough battle" exist, "a difficult contest" effectively conveys the demanding nature of a situation. Remember to vary your vocabulary and specify the sources of difficulty for impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging competition

Replaces "difficult contest" with synonyms that highlight the demanding aspect.

a tough battle

Uses a metaphor to emphasize the struggle involved in the contest.

an uphill struggle

Highlights the adversity and effort needed to succeed.

a formidable challenge

Emphasizes the strength and difficulty posed by the contest.

a demanding trial

Focuses on the rigorous and testing nature of the contest.

a grueling competition

Highlights the exhausting and intense nature of the contest.

a stiff competition

Emphasizes the high level of rivalry and difficulty in the contest.

a hard-fought race

Highlights the intense effort and determination involved.

a close match

Focuses on the tight competition and uncertainty of the outcome.

a testing ordeal

Highlights the difficult and trying nature of the experience.

FAQs

How can I use "a difficult contest" in a sentence?

You can use "a difficult contest" to describe any situation where success is hard-earned. For example: "The election proved to be a difficult contest for the incumbent."

What are some alternatives to saying "a difficult contest"?

Alternatives include "a challenging competition", "a tough battle", or "a formidable challenge". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a difficult contest" or "a challenging contest"?

Both "a difficult contest" and "a challenging contest" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. "Challenging" may sometimes imply an opportunity for growth, while "difficult" focuses more on the hardship.

What makes "a difficult contest" different from a regular contest?

A "difficult contest" implies significant obstacles, strong opposition, or complex requirements that make success particularly hard to achieve. It's not just a competition; it's a struggle.