a difficult matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is complex or challenging to address. Example: "The negotiations have turned into a difficult matter, requiring careful consideration from both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

BRITO: The manufacturers are a difficult matter.

The New York Times

What to do about it is a difficult matter.

University of California, Berkeley

This may be, but how much faster is a difficult matter to ascertain.

University of California, Berkeley

But understanding the mechanisms of this complicated process is a difficult matter.

Harvard University

"THE naming of cats is a difficult matter, it isn't just one of your holiday games".

The Economist

In his case, however, defining that original audience is a difficult matter.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Even while she approaches a difficult subject matter, McNaught also captures the beauty of each animal in her pieces.

Vice

It's an elegant poem about a difficult subject matter, and that, of course, is the key to so much brilliant poetry.

Los Angeles Times

When Ackerley wrote "My Father and Myself," which he worked on for the last thirty-four years of his life, he reached a new level of candor, and not about a dog but about human beings, a more difficult matter.

The New Yorker

This example shows that the obtained stability conditions are sufficient and very close to be necessary; on the other hand, the proposed results make it possible to avoid searching a common Lyapunov function, which is a very difficult matter in this case.

Advances in Difference Equations

But happiness is a complicated, difficult matter, and in "Happy-Go-Lucky" it's also a question of faith.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a difficult matter", consider if a more specific term would provide greater clarity. For instance, instead of saying "Negotiating the contract was a difficult matter", try "Negotiating the contract was a complex process".

Common error

Avoid using "a difficult matter" as a default phrase. If you find yourself repeatedly using it, challenge yourself to identify the precise source of the difficulty and express it more directly. Vague language will diminish the value of your writings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult matter" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

31%

Science

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a difficult matter" is a versatile phrase used to describe something complex, challenging, or problematic. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used in various contexts. While it is appropriate for formal writing, more specific terms may sometimes offer greater clarity. Ludwig's analysis reveals that the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, Academic, and Science contexts, suggesting its broad applicability. Remember to avoid overuse and consider more descriptive alternatives when possible to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex issue

Replaces "matter" with "issue" and "difficult" with "complex", highlighting the intricate nature of the problem.

a challenging situation

Substitutes "matter" with "situation" and "difficult" with "challenging", emphasizing the demanding aspects.

a complicated problem

Replaces "matter" with "problem" and "difficult" with "complicated", focusing on the intricate and puzzling aspect.

a thorny question

Substitutes "matter" with "question" and "difficult" with "thorny", highlighting the prickly and contentious nature.

a delicate subject

Replaces "matter" with "subject" and "difficult" with "delicate", emphasizing the need for careful handling.

an intricate affair

Substitutes "matter" with "affair" and "difficult" with "intricate", stressing the complex and interwoven elements.

a perplexing puzzle

Replaces "matter" with "puzzle" and "difficult" with "perplexing", emphasizing the confusing and baffling nature.

a tough proposition

Substitutes "matter" with "proposition" and "difficult" with "tough", highlighting the demanding and challenging aspect.

a sticky wicket

Replaces "difficult matter" with a less formal idiom to indicate a problematic situation.

a headache

Replaces "difficult matter" with a simple and informal idiom to indicate a troublesome situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a difficult matter" to describe a situation, problem, or topic that is complex, challenging, or hard to deal with. For example, "Resolving the dispute turned out to be "a difficult matter"".

What phrases are similar to "a difficult matter"?

Alternatives include "a complex issue", "a challenging situation", or "a complicated problem". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "a difficult matter" in formal writing?

Yes, "a difficult matter" is acceptable in formal writing, but consider whether a more precise and descriptive phrase might be more impactful depending on the context.

What's the difference between "a difficult matter" and "a delicate matter"?

"A difficult matter" suggests complexity or challenge, while "a delicate matter" implies sensitivity and the need for careful handling. They are not always interchangeable.