a difficult relationship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficult relationship" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a relationship between two people that is challenging, complicated, or problematic in some way. For example: - "After years of trying to make it work, they finally ended their difficult relationship." - "Their marriage was always a difficult relationship, filled with constant arguments and disagreements." - "He had a difficult relationship with his father, who never seemed to understand or support him." - "She had a difficult relationship with food, struggling with an eating disorder for many years." - "As siblings, they had a difficult relationship growing up, often fighting and competing with each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The two have a difficult relationship.

Independent

"We had a difficult relationship.

The New Yorker

"I never had a difficult relationship.

The Guardian

How do I handle a difficult relationship in my field?

Cornell University

The company has had a difficult relationship with the WGA.

The Guardian

Which isn't to say they didn't have a difficult relationship.

The New Yorker

"And Nokia has had a difficult relationship with the carriers".

The New York Times

The country has always had a difficult relationship with water.

The New Yorker

I have quite a difficult relationship with WhatsApp.

The Guardian - Books

She had a difficult relationship with her mother.

The New York Times

The dilemma I've always had a difficult relationship with my mother.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the nature of the difficulties, use specific examples to illustrate the challenges within the relationship, making your description more vivid and understandable.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that someone has "a difficult relationship" without providing context. Explain the specific issues or dynamics that make the relationship challenging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficult relationship" functions as a noun phrase that describes a relationship characterized by problems, challenges, or tension. As Ludwig highlights, this expression is commonly used in various contexts to convey complexities in interpersonal connections.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

13%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a difficult relationship" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe relationships marked by challenges or problems. Ludwig confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. The phrase functions as a noun phrase to concisely communicate underlying tensions or issues. While synonyms like "a strained relationship" or "a troubled relationship" exist, it's important to provide specific details to illustrate the nature of the difficulties. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strained relationship

This alternative suggests tension or discomfort within the relationship.

a troubled relationship

This highlights the presence of problems or issues affecting the relationship.

a rocky relationship

This implies instability and frequent disagreements.

a challenging relationship

This emphasizes the demanding nature of the relationship.

a problematic relationship

This suggests that the relationship is causing issues or difficulties.

a complex relationship

This highlights the intricate and multi-layered nature of the relationship's difficulties.

a fraught relationship

This conveys a sense of anxiety and tension.

a contentious relationship

This implies frequent arguments and disagreements.

an uneasy relationship

This suggests a lack of comfort and trust.

an acrimonious relationship

This highlights bitterness and resentment between the parties involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "a difficult relationship" to describe any relationship that involves significant challenges, such as "They have "a difficult relationship" because they disagree on almost everything".

What are some synonyms for "a difficult relationship"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a strained relationship", "a troubled relationship", or "a rocky relationship", depending on the nuances you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a difficult relationship"?

Yes, "a difficult relationship" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a relationship that presents challenges or problems.

What's the difference between "a difficult relationship" and "a challenging relationship"?

While both suggest problems, ""a difficult relationship"" often implies more severe or persistent issues, whereas "a challenging relationship" might suggest that the relationship requires effort but is not necessarily negative.