although harder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "although harder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a contrast or exception in a statement, typically when comparing two situations or conditions. Example: "The task is enjoyable, although harder than I initially expected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The benefit to English rugby will be immense, although harder to quantify.

The Guardian - Sport

Although harder to interpret than in the United States, they will still be crucial in the swing senators' calculations.

The Economist

Although harder to steal, those cute little bottles have found their way into the pocket of a nimble-fingered traveler from time to time.

The New York Times

Although harder to sustain in more buttoned-up 1950s Britain than in 2013, Ken and Hazel's relationship may not be too different from many transgender people's experience today.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The expanded output of Alberta's oil sands reserves, considered second in capacity only to Saudi Arabian reserves although harder to extract, also fed the surge in construction, Mr. Kwong said.

The New York Times

A friendly waiter swiftly dropped two plates on the counter: one filled with pimientos de Padrón (fried salted green peppers), the other with fried pig snout, which, truth be told, looked and tasted like pork rinds, although harder and crunchier.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Illegal immigration, although hard to measure, has clearly been declining.

The New Yorker

Although hard to tolerate, there is a challenging insouciance about this work that's liberating.

The New York Times

Although hard data do influence thinking, the psychology of risk perception is complicated.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although Hard Eight was critically praised, Anderson's breakout effort was Boogie Nights (1997).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although hard for the average person to spot, these carvings do provide evidence of an early Jewish presence in Split.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "although harder", ensure that the sentence still maintains a logical flow. The contrasting element should provide additional context, not create confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "although harder" without a clear point of comparison. Ensure the reader understands what is being compared and why it is more difficult. Always link it to a clear subject and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "although harder" functions as a concessive conjunction, connecting two clauses where the second clause presents a contrast or limitation to the first. Ludwig examples show it softening a statement or acknowledging a difficulty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "although harder" functions as a concessive conjunction, introducing a contrast or qualification within a sentence. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, from news articles and scientific papers to general writing, demonstrating its neutral register. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. When using "although harder", ensure it connects logically to a clear point of comparison to maintain clarity and add depth to your writing. Alternatives include phrases like "even if it's more difficult" or "despite being tougher", each offering a slightly different nuance. As an example of a frequent error to avoid, do not use "although harder" without establishing the element of comparison in your sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though more challenging

Emphasizes the difficulty as a greater challenge compared to the original statement.

even though it's tougher

Highlights the toughness or increased difficulty, despite the initial condition.

despite being more complex

Focuses on the increased complexity as the challenging aspect.

while more demanding

Stresses the demanding nature of the task or situation, acting as a contrast.

albeit more arduous

Introduces a formal tone, emphasizing the strenuous or difficult nature.

notwithstanding its difficulty

Acknowledges the difficulty, but does not detract from the main point.

even if more intricate

Highlights the intricate or detailed nature of the challenge.

though presenting more obstacles

Focuses on the presence of increased obstacles or hurdles.

despite greater obstacles

Focuses on the fact that the magnitude of obstacles is greater.

while entailing more effort

Highlights increased effort is still involved.

FAQs

How can I use "although harder" in a sentence?

Use "although harder" to introduce a contrasting element that acknowledges difficulty while still affirming a primary idea. For instance, "The task is enjoyable, "although harder" than I initially expected".

What's a simpler way to say "although harder"?

Simpler alternatives include phrases like "even if it's more difficult", "despite being tougher", or "though more challenging". The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it always necessary to include "although" when describing something as "harder"?

No, "although" is used to introduce a contrast or concession. If you simply want to state that something is more difficult, you can omit "although" and say something like, "This method is "more difficult"".

What's the difference between "although harder" and "despite being harder"?

"Although harder" introduces a contrasting element, while "despite being harder" emphasizes overcoming the difficulty. The difference is subtle but can affect the tone and focus of your statement.