adding to the difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adding to the difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing factors or circumstances that increase challenges or complications in a situation. Example: "The unexpected weather changes are adding to the difficulty of the rescue operation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Heightened world competition is also adding to the difficulty of American exporters' task.

The New York Times

The reference checking companies are adding to the difficulty that employers have long had in providing references on former employees.

The New York Times

In some ways, his popularity complicates matters by raising expectations and adding to the difficulty of striking the appropriate tone and message.

The New York Times

Grady Clay, an engineer with the Army Corps of Engineers, said that adding to the difficulty in clearing the debris was the large amount of construction material from hundreds of collapsed homes that has to be separated if it has asbestos.

The New York Times

A month later, in the single largest loss to NATO in several years, 10 French soldiers were killed in an ambush, horrifying France and adding to the difficulty of the United States campaign to persuade NATO members to not only sustain but increase their engagement with the war effort.

The New York Times

In patients with acute abdomen uncontrolled pain may produce an uncooperative patient, thus adding to the difficulty of clinical diagnosis.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

THE threat of war in Iraq is adding to the difficulties facing Bahrain's once-thriving offshore banking business.

The Economist

Sporadic fighting and resistance could even last longer, adding to the difficulties of setting up a fully functional local government.

The New York Times

Sporadic fighting and resistance could last even longer, adding to the difficulties of setting up a fully functional local government.

The New York Times

"A number of vehicles were crushed under the fallen bridge section, adding to the difficulties of the rescuers," said a report on China Central Television.

The New York Times

And, of course, it may have toppled many already severely damaged buildings, adding to the difficulties of the rescue operation.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adding to the difficulty" when you want to emphasize that a particular factor is increasing the level of challenge in a situation. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "adding to the difficulty" in sentences where a simpler phrase like "making it harder" would suffice. Overusing complex phrasing can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adding to the difficulty" functions as a modifier, indicating that something is increasing the level of challenge or complication in a given situation. Ludwig shows that it is frequently used in contexts where problems are being compounded.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adding to the difficulty" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that indicates an increase in challenges or complications. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness in various contexts. It is commonly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, suggesting a neutral to slightly formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the compounding nature of the situation and consider simpler alternatives like "making it harder" for informal settings. Remember, clarity and precision are key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compounding the issue

Focuses on adding more elements to an already problematic situation.

further complicating things

Indicates an additional layer of complexity.

complicating the matter

Emphasizes making something more complex or intricate.

making it even harder

Directly expresses an increase in the level of difficulty.

heightening the challenge

Stresses an increase in the demanding nature of a task.

aggravating the circumstances

Highlights making the existing conditions more severe.

exacerbating the problem

Focuses on making an existing problem worse.

magnifying the complexity

Indicates an increase in the intricate details of something.

worsening the situation

Highlights a decline in the state of affairs.

intensifying the struggle

Emphasizes a greater level of effort or conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "adding to the difficulty" in a sentence?

You can use "adding to the difficulty" to describe factors that make a task or situation more challenging. For example, "The lack of resources is "adding to the difficulty" of completing the project on time."

What are some alternatives to "adding to the difficulty"?

Alternatives include "complicating the matter", "exacerbating the problem", or simply "making it harder", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "adding to the difficulty" or "contributing to the difficulty"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "adding to the difficulty" emphasizes a direct increase in challenges, while "contributing to the difficulty" suggests a more indirect influence.

When should I avoid using "adding to the difficulty"?

Avoid using "adding to the difficulty" in very informal settings where simpler language is preferred. Also, ensure the context genuinely warrants a phrase indicating increased complexity or challenge.