a hitch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hitch" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a problem or obstacle that arises unexpectedly, often in the context of plans or processes. Example: "We were all set for the trip, but there was a hitch with the flight schedule that delayed our departure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But there's a hitch.

The New York Times

This has a hitch.

The Economist

Here's a hitch, though.

The New York Times

But there is a hitch.

The New York Times

But there was a hitch.

The New York Times - Arts

Everything went without a hitch.

The New Yorker

"It went without a hitch".

The New York Times

A hitch developed.

The Guardian

Not that it went without a hitch.

Independent

There is a hitch, of course.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Emo Philips "I picked up a hitch-hiker.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a hitch" to introduce an unexpected problem or difficulty in a situation, especially when outlining plans or describing processes.

Common error

While "a hitch" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and formal alternatives like "complication", "obstacle", or "difficulty" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hitch" functions as a noun phrase within a sentence, typically acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It denotes an unexpected problem or difficulty. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to introduce a snag in plans or processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a hitch" is a common and generally acceptable idiom used to describe an unexpected problem or difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, its usage is straightforward: to introduce a snag or complication that alters the expected course of events. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "complication" or "obstacle" in highly professional or academic writing. Remembering these nuances will help you effectively incorporate "a hitch" into your writing while maintaining clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a snag

Similar meaning, indicating a minor problem or unexpected difficulty.

a problem

A more general term for something that causes trouble or difficulty.

a complication

Suggests a situation that is more complex than anticipated.

an obstacle

Implies something that blocks progress or achievement.

a difficulty

A general term for something that is not easy to deal with.

a setback

Indicates a temporary delay or reversal in progress.

a glitch

Usually refers to a minor technical problem or malfunction.

an impediment

Suggests something that hinders or obstructs progress.

a stumbling block

A difficulty that prevents progress or agreement.

a drawback

A disadvantage or negative aspect of something.

FAQs

How to use "a hitch" in a sentence?

You can use "a hitch" to introduce an unexpected problem or difficulty. For example: "The project was on track, but there was "a hitch" when the funding was delayed."

What can I say instead of "a hitch"?

You can use alternatives like "a snag", "a problem", or "a complication" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a hitch" or "the hitch"?

"A hitch" is generally used to refer to a single instance of a problem or difficulty. "The hitch" might be used if referring to a specific, previously mentioned problem. However, ""a hitch"" is far more common.

What's the difference between "a hitch" and "a setback"?

While both indicate problems, ""a hitch"" often refers to a smaller, unexpected issue, while "a setback" implies a more significant delay or reversal in progress.