a difficult proposition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult proposition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a challenging idea, suggestion, or plan that may be hard to accept or implement. Example: "Convincing the board to approve the new budget was a difficult proposition, given the current financial constraints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a difficult proposition".

Independent

Additions are a difficult proposition.

The New York Times

This makes new legislation a difficult proposition.

The New York Times

CCS is a difficult proposition for green groups.

The Guardian

Identifying who is who in the Taliban's shadow world is a difficult proposition.

Independent

Trump himself has admitted that his business ventures make even discussing world affairs a difficult proposition.

The New Yorker

This makes legislature a difficult proposition but also a rich one.

The Guardian - Arts

The woman who takes herself seriously is quite a difficult proposition.

The Guardian

There is little corporate presence in the city, making the revenue-spinning sale of luxury suites a difficult proposition.

The New York Times - Sports

He returned to start Aug. 5. Choosing the Mets' second-worst moment of the night was a difficult proposition.

The New York Times - Sports

A World Cup in midseason would have players in peak condition, but Brosnan said it "would be a difficult proposition".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a difficult proposition", ensure the context clearly outlines why the proposition is challenging. This provides clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

While "a difficult proposition" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using alternatives like "a tough challenge" or "a complex issue" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult proposition" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" modifies the noun "proposition". As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly acts as a subject complement or object complement, describing the nature of a situation or task.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a difficult proposition" is a commonly used phrase that effectively conveys the challenging nature of a task or situation. Analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in diverse sources, prominently in News & Media. Ludwig AI suggests that while widely accepted, writers should avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "a tough challenge" or "a complex issue" for enhanced clarity. Understanding these nuances empowers effective communication, ensuring messages resonate with precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a challenging undertaking

This alternative emphasizes the effort and complexity involved in the task.

a tough assignment

This suggests a task that requires considerable effort and resilience.

a complex matter

This highlights the intricate nature of the situation or problem.

a demanding task

This emphasizes the high level of requirements and effort needed.

a problematic situation

Focuses on the troubles and potential issues associated with the scenario.

a thorny issue

Implies that the problem is complex and potentially contentious.

a Herculean task

This suggests the task is extremely difficult, requiring immense strength or effort.

an uphill battle

Implies a long and difficult struggle against considerable odds.

a tall order

This suggests the task is ambitious and may be difficult to fulfill.

a hard nut to crack

This implies that the problem is particularly resistant to solutions.

FAQs

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

You can use "a difficult proposition" to describe a task, idea, or situation that is challenging to achieve or resolve. For example, "Convincing the shareholders to invest in the company was "a difficult proposition" considering the recent financial losses."

What are some alternatives to "a difficult proposition"?

You can use alternatives like "a tough challenge", "a complex issue", or "a demanding task" depending on the specific context.

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

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "A challenging proposition" emphasizes the stimulating and potentially rewarding nature of the task, while "a difficult proposition" highlights the inherent obstacles and challenges.

What makes something "a difficult proposition"?

Something is "a difficult proposition" when it presents significant obstacles, requires substantial effort, or faces considerable resistance. These challenges can be due to factors like complexity, lack of resources, or opposition from others.