a particular difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific challenge or problem that someone is facing. Example: "The team encountered a particular difficulty in meeting the project deadline due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But London has a particular difficulty.

The Economist

Then a particular difficulty cropped up – her clothes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Concurrences present the bench and bar with a particular difficulty.

The New York Times

A particular difficulty is that many exiles now back in Iraq have no such cards.

The Economist

This was a particular difficulty in markets where the Andersen practice held a strong position.

The Economist

"In your case there was a particular difficulty because you spoke no English and were very reserved.

The Guardian

For small and rural districts, already stretching staff to provide the basic curriculum, that poses a particular difficulty.

The New York Times

A particular difficulty however is the decrease in convergence rate associated with the increase in number of solution domains.

Applied Mathematical Modelling

"There's a particular difficulty with the detainees from Yemen because of the situation in their home country and also because of the large number of Yemenis at Guantánamo.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

A problem of particular difficulty and importance is posed by the Greek New Testament.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For instance, if a resident has particular difficulty in concise patient charting, the Coach may make the Attending on service aware of this ongoing challenge for the resident and ask them to review notes with the resident.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a particular difficulty", ensure the context clearly identifies what makes the difficulty specific or unique to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular difficulty" when the challenge is common or generic. Instead, use it when the difficulty is specific to the situation or individual involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular difficulty" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a specific challenge or problem that requires attention. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular difficulty" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase used to identify a specific challenge or problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate in various contexts, including scientific, news-related, and formal business settings. While interchangeable with phrases like "a specific challenge" or "a distinct problem", it's important to use it when the difficulty is indeed unique to avoid overgeneralization. To enhance clarity, clearly define the difficulty in the context. The phrase is prevalent across authoritative sources, making it a reliable choice for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific challenge

Focuses more on the nature of the problem as something that tests one's abilities.

a distinct problem

Emphasizes the separateness and clarity of the issue.

a unique obstacle

Highlights the unparalleled nature of the impediment.

a special hardship

Underscores the severity and the burden it places on someone.

a notable complication

Draws attention to the intricacy and entanglement it adds to a situation.

a significant impediment

Stresses the importance and hindering effect of the obstacle.

a considerable setback

Focuses on the regressive effect and delay it causes.

a major disadvantage

Highlights the unfavorable position it creates in comparison to others.

a tough predicament

Emphasizes the challenging and often uncomfortable nature of the situation.

a tricky situation

Highlights the need for careful handling and skillful navigation.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular difficulty" in a sentence?

Use "a particular difficulty" to describe a specific challenge or obstacle encountered. For example, "The project team faced "a particular difficulty" in integrating the new software with the existing system."

What phrases can I use instead of "a particular difficulty"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific challenge", "a distinct problem", or "a unique obstacle" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "a particular difficulty" and "a general difficulty"?

"A particular difficulty" refers to a specific, identifiable problem, while "a general difficulty" refers to a broad or common issue. Use "a particular difficulty" when you want to highlight a unique challenge.

Is it better to say "a particular difficulty" or "a specific difficulty"?

Both "a particular difficulty" and "a specific difficulty" are acceptable. "Particular" emphasizes the distinct nature of the problem, while "specific" emphasizes its clear and defined characteristics. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.