be both difficult and

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be both difficult and" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation or task that has multiple challenging aspects. Example: "The project can be both difficult and time-consuming, requiring careful planning and execution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

In fact it can be both difficult and expensive.

The Guardian - Money

Monitoring these species, particularly on-site, can be both difficult and expensive.

Talanta

This means that, once introduced, it would be both difficult and unprofitable for banks to avoid paying the tax.

The Guardian - Opinion

In consequence, the task of efficiently gathering and extracting information from documents can be both difficult and tedious.

Computer Standards & Interfaces

Allowing all three communities within that false state to emerge at least as self-governing regions would be both difficult and dangerous.

The New York Times

In particular, you can't put a price on something unless you can measure it accurately, and that can be both difficult and expensive.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

It is both difficult and ungainly.

The Guardian

The battle is both difficult and urgent.

The Guardian

The process has been both difficult and rewarding.

Princeton University

The working group's task is both difficult and subtle.

The New York Times

And, in this, you begin to see why development is both difficult and necessary.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be both difficult and", ensure that the second adjective adds a distinct, non-redundant dimension to the description. For instance, "be both difficult and expensive" is more impactful than "be both difficult and hard."

Common error

Avoid using "be both difficult and" repeatedly in close proximity within your writing. Vary your descriptive language to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be both difficult and" functions as a descriptive conjunction phrase, modifying a noun or subject by ascribing two challenging attributes. As evidenced by Ludwig, this expression is commonly used to express a dual nature of complexity or adversity in a situation, task, or process.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

36%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be both difficult and" serves as a descriptive conjunction, highlighting two distinct challenges inherent in a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various registers. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it conveys a nuanced understanding of complexity. To ensure effective use, prioritize distinct attributes and avoid overuse. Alternatives include "be both challenging and" and "be both complex and". In conclusion, while versatile, employing this phrase with thoughtful consideration ensures clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be both challenging and

Replaces 'difficult' with 'challenging', softening the tone while retaining the meaning of complexity.

be both complex and

Substitutes 'difficult' with 'complex', focusing on the intricate nature of the situation.

be both tough and

Replaces 'difficult' with 'tough', emphasizing the demanding nature of the task.

be both arduous and

Replaces 'difficult' with 'arduous', highlighting the effort required.

be both problematic and

Substitutes 'difficult' with 'problematic', shifting the focus to potential issues.

be both trying and

Replaces 'difficult' with 'trying', emphasizing the stress induced.

be fraught with difficulty and

Emphasizes the presence of difficulty, adding a sense of potential danger or trouble.

present both difficulty and

Changes the structure, focusing on the act of presenting challenges.

involve both difficulty and

Shifts the focus to the inclusion of difficulty as a component.

constitute both difficulty and

Highlights that difficulty is a fundamental part of the situation.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "be both difficult and"?

You can use alternatives like "be both challenging and", "be both complex and", or "be fraught with difficulty and" depending on the specific nuances you want to convey.

How do I use "be both difficult and" in a sentence?

The phrase "be both difficult and" is used to describe something that possesses two challenging qualities. For example, "The task can be both difficult and time-consuming."

Is there a difference between "be both difficult and" and "be difficult and"?

Yes, adding "both" emphasizes that the subject possesses two distinct challenging qualities, whereas "be difficult and" might imply a single, multifaceted difficulty. In other words, “"be both difficult and"” suggests a dual challenge, while “be difficult and” is more general.

Can "be both difficult and" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "be both difficult and" is appropriate for formal writing. It is grammatically correct and widely understood across various registers, including academic, professional, and journalistic contexts.