a difficulty is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a difficulty is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a challenge or obstacle in a discussion or argument. Example: "A difficulty is that we have limited resources to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

A difficulty is that multiple genes are involved in the origin and in development of invasive types of EOCs [ 3, 4].

BioMed Research International

While there is strength in the Finnish study in that it is longitudinal, a difficulty is that intake of sucrose only was assessed, and other sugars, such as fructose, maltose and glucose are similarly cariogenic.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition

A difficulty is that the solution often depends on the true system.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

However, a difficulty is that this seems to simply produce many so-called "secondary concepts", corresponding to all the previously proposed ways of detecting and/or defining species.

SEP

A difficulty is that mild solutions do not have stochastic differentials, so that one cannot apply the Itô formula to them.

Advances in Difference Equations

A difficulty is that the flowers of many cultivars exhibit different colours depending on the temperature during bud formation and growth.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A further difficulty is that religion is becoming a toxic word.

The Guardian - Opinion

A related difficulty is that open-minded observers will want to know why buffoonish impostors can pose such a threat to the great edifice of science.

The Economist

A particular difficulty is that melissopalynology requires previous knowledge of pollen morphology and specialised professional personnel to achieve reliable results [23].

Chemistry Central Journal

A key difficulty is that stakeholders typically convey their goals indirectly through intuitive narrative-style scenarios of desirable and undesirable system behaviour, whereas goal refinement methods usually require goals to be expressed declaratively using, for instance, a temporal logic.

Journal of Applied Logic

A further difficulty is that definitions of anaemia are not completely standardised.

BMC Nephrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a difficulty is that", ensure that the statement following 'that' clearly and concisely explains the specific problem or challenge you are addressing. Avoid vague or ambiguous language.

Common error

Avoid using "a difficulty is that" without clearly articulating the difficulty. Vague statements diminish the phrase's impact and can confuse the reader. Be specific about the nature of the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a difficulty is that" functions as an introductory phrase to highlight a problem or challenge. It sets the stage for explaining the issue and its implications. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound construction for introducing complications.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

67%

News & Media

22%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a difficulty is that" serves as a useful phrase for introducing problems or challenges across various contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use. While "a difficulty is that" isn't as common as alternatives like "one problem is that", it maintains a neutral tone appropriate for science, news, and encyclopedic writing. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity in articulating the difficulty. Remember, effective communication hinges on clearly identifying and addressing potential problems. By considering usage patterns and common errors, you can confidently employ "a difficulty is that" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one problem is that

Replaces "difficulty" with the more common "problem", making it slightly less formal.

a challenge lies in

Emphasizes the challenging aspect of the situation, rather than just a difficulty.

an obstacle is that

Highlights the obstructive nature of the issue.

the problem arises when

Focuses on when the issue becomes apparent, shifting the emphasis slightly.

a major issue is

Highlights the significance or scale of the problem.

the snag is that

Uses a more informal term, "snag", for a minor difficulty.

a stumbling block is

Implies an impediment to progress.

the catch is that

Suggests a hidden or unexpected problem.

a drawback to this is

Introduces a negative aspect of a particular solution or situation.

one limitation is that

Specifically points out a restriction or constraint.

FAQs

How can I use "a difficulty is that" in a sentence?

Use "a difficulty is that" to introduce a problem or challenge. For example, "A difficulty is that we lack sufficient funding for the project".

What are some alternatives to "a difficulty is that"?

Alternatives include "one problem is that", "a challenge lies in", or "an obstacle is that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a difficulty is that"?

It is appropriate to use "a difficulty is that" in situations where you want to introduce a specific problem or challenge that needs to be addressed. It's suitable for formal and informal contexts.

Is "a difficulty is that" formal or informal?

"A difficulty is that" is relatively neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. More formal alternatives might include "one limitation is that" or "the problem arises when", while "the catch is that" is more informal.