be difficult to learn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be difficult to learn" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a subject, skill, or concept that poses challenges for understanding or mastery. Example: "Many students find advanced calculus to be difficult to learn without proper guidance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

These courses include content that can be difficult to learn.

Nurse Education Today

Cognitive-architecture-based models are useful, but building a cognitive model itself can be difficult to learn and master.

Procedia Manufacturing

While a number of gestural vocabularies have been proposed, these are generally restricted to one or two fingers or can be difficult to learn.

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

And the strongest criticism of Topspin among artists is one that Mr. Rogers readily acknowledges: compared with its competitors, Topspin is complex and can be difficult to learn.

The New York Times

To understand why OO approaches seem to be difficult to learn and use, we illustrate the consistency of common characteristics of OO techniques and the cognitive activities of systems designers.

Journal of Systems and Software

The piece, which is heavy on contrapuntal writing but demands a light touch by players and singers alike, "can be difficult to learn and perform because of the intricacies" that Williams uses to weave orchestra and voice, Mr. Jamerson said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

And it is difficult to learn.

The New York Times - Tech

NIELSEN: It's difficult to learn.

MIT Technology Review

People perceive it as being difficult to learn.

The Guardian

It is difficult to learn how serious are the remaining differences, particularly between Wash.

The New Yorker

"Sometimes it's difficult to learn from him because he's doing everything naturally.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be difficult to learn", consider specifying what makes it difficult, such as the complexity of the material or the lack of resources.

Common error

Avoid using "be difficult to learn" without providing context. Instead of saying "This topic is difficult to learn", specify which aspects are challenging and for whom.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be difficult to learn" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the characteristic of a subject as challenging to acquire knowledge or skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable expression in English, describing a quality of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be difficult to learn" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something requires significant effort to master. As Ludwig AI verifies, it finds frequent use in contexts ranging from Science and News & Media to Wiki articles. The neutral register of the phrase makes it suitable for a wide array of communication styles. When employing this phrase, remember to provide context to enhance clarity and avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives like "be challenging to learn" or "be hard to grasp" can offer subtle variations in meaning depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be tough to learn

Replaces "difficult" with "tough", suggesting a more arduous learning process.

be tricky to learn

Substitutes "difficult" with "tricky", implying the learning process involves subtle complexities or hidden challenges.

be challenging to learn

Replaces "difficult" with "challenging", suggesting a stimulating but demanding learning experience.

be hard to learn

Uses "hard" instead of "difficult", conveying a straightforward sense of the effort required.

pose learning difficulties

Emphasizes the existence of difficulties in the learning process.

present a learning curve

Focuses on the initial phase of learning that requires a substantial amount of effort.

require significant learning effort

Highlights the substantial effort needed to learn something.

not be easy to learn

Expresses difficulty by negating ease, subtly highlighting the complexity.

be an uphill learning battle

Paints a picture of a constant, strenuous effort required to learn.

demand a steep learning process

Focuses on the demanding nature and rapid progression required for learning.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "be difficult to learn"?

It means that the subject, skill, or concept requires significant effort, time, or specific aptitude to understand or master. It suggests that the learning process may involve overcoming challenges or complexities.

How can I make something that is "be difficult to learn" easier?

Break down the subject into smaller, manageable parts. Seek guidance from experts, use visual aids, and practice consistently. Understanding the underlying principles can also help.

What are some alternatives to "be difficult to learn"?

You can use phrases like "be challenging to learn", "be hard to grasp", or "present a learning curve" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "be difficult to learn" or "be hard to learn"?

Both phrases are acceptable and have similar meanings. "Be difficult to learn" might sound slightly more formal, while "be hard to learn" is more casual. The choice depends on the context and your desired tone.