a protracted difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a protracted difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a problem or challenge that has lasted for a long time or is ongoing. Example: "The team faced a protracted difficulty in meeting the project deadline due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Unite has repeatedly demanded action from ministers in relation to the high energy costs, the protracted difficulties experienced by Michelin in obtaining a connection for a proposed combined-heat power plant and the pressing need for capital support to modernise the plant," he said.

The Guardian - Business

Two major developments point to more protracted difficulties.

The New York Times

In October, Santander walked away from its agreement to acquire 316 UK branches, following protracted difficulties with technology transfer.

The Guardian - Business

A protracted silence.

The New York Times - Magazine

What followed was a protracted negotiation.

The New York Times - Health

A protracted three-way bidding war ensued.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead, a protracted trench war is likely to lie ahead.

The Economist

Spaniards have not only been living under a protracted recession.

The New York Times

Kennedy lost, and Ford faced a protracted contest.

The New York Times

Such proceedings can often take a protracted amount of time.

The New York Times

He is a loud agitation in a protracted dead calm.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a protracted difficulty", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature and scope of the difficulty. Be specific about what makes it protracted – is it the duration, complexity, or resistance to resolution?

Common error

Avoid using "a protracted difficulty" to describe minor or easily resolved problems. The phrase implies a significant and enduring challenge, so reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such a description.

Linguistic Context

A protracted difficulty functions as a noun phrase, where "protracted" modifies the noun "difficulty". It is used to describe a situation or problem that has lasted for a significant amount of time and is often complex or challenging to resolve. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct but has limited usage examples.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

A protracted difficulty is a phrase used to describe a long-lasting and complex problem. While grammatically correct, Ludwig AI indicates that it's not a very commonly used phrase. When using it, ensure the context warrants the implication of a significant and enduring challenge. Alternatives such as "a prolonged struggle" or "an extended hardship" may be suitable depending on the specific context. The phrase is generally appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, such as news articles or professional communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prolonged struggle

Replaces "difficulty" with "struggle", implying a more active and forceful effort to overcome the problem.

an extended hardship

Substitutes "difficulty" with "hardship", suggesting a severe and prolonged period of suffering or adversity.

a drawn-out challenge

Replaces "protracted" with "drawn-out" and "difficulty" with "challenge", softening the tone slightly.

a lengthy ordeal

Changes the phrase to describe the difficulty as a "lengthy ordeal", highlighting the unpleasant and prolonged nature of the experience.

a persistent problem

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the "problem" by using the adjective "persistent".

a long-term setback

Frames the difficulty as a "long-term setback", emphasizing its impact on progress.

a sustained crisis

Describes the difficulty as a "sustained crisis", indicating a critical and prolonged period of instability.

a chronic issue

Replaces "difficulty" with "issue" and describes it as "chronic", emphasizing its recurring or persistent nature.

a lingering complication

Highlights the lasting and intricate nature of the "complication".

a continuing predicament

Substitutes "difficulty" with "predicament", suggesting a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation that is continuing.

FAQs

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

You can use "a protracted difficulty" to describe situations involving long-lasting or extended problems. For example: "The company faced "a protracted difficulty" in obtaining the necessary permits." or "The negotiations encountered "a protracted difficulty" due to conflicting interests."

What are some alternatives to "a protracted difficulty"?

Alternatives to "a protracted difficulty" include "a prolonged struggle", "an extended hardship", or "a drawn-out challenge", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "protracted difficulty" or "prolonged difficulty"?

Both "protracted difficulty" and "prolonged difficulty" are acceptable. "Protracted" often implies a sense of resistance or opposition, while "prolonged" simply indicates an extended duration. Choose the word that best fits the nuance of the situation.

What kind of situations is "a protracted difficulty" best suited to describe?

"A protracted difficulty" is best used to describe situations involving significant challenges that have lasted for a considerable time and are not easily resolved. This could include legal battles, economic downturns, or complex technical problems.