constant difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "constant difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition where challenges or obstacles are consistently present. Example: "She faced constant difficulty in her efforts to learn the new language, but she remained determined to improve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Ghostwritten books pose a constant difficulty – you are never sure whose voice is leading whose.

The Guardian - Books

It has been a constant difficulty for them to find the right balance – an extra batsman or an extra bowler – both roles that Kallis filled.

Independent

That took chutzpah, for though many embraced the idea and welcomed a dash of colour to what was then a down-at-heel district, race relations in Notting Hill were a constant difficulty.

The Guardian

Crain also provides telling details of expat life, like the joy of finding a store that sells cornflakes, or the constant difficulty of making plans to meet up with friends without the conveniences of landlines, let alone cellphones or electronic communication.

The New York Times - Books

Throughout Battleship Division Nine's time with the Grand Fleet, combating boredom was a constant difficulty.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

One also observes the constant difficulties of designing sustainable schemes for bus companies.

Research in Transportation Economics

In examining Washington's constant difficulties with the governments in Saigon, the study found the United States so heavily committed to the regime of the moment and so fearful of instability that it was unable to persuade the South Vietnamese to make the political and economic reforms that Americans deemed necessary to win the allegiance of the people.

The New York Times

Constant difficulties with noise may be a symptom of autism, sensory processing disorder, or ADHD.

WikiHow

More than two years after the shooting, Mr. Johnson still walks with a limp and experiences constant pain, difficulty with digestion and incontinence, said an assistant district attorney, Jeffrey Glucksman.

The New York Times

Goodman calls this the "constant companionship difficulty".

SEP

The constant companionship difficulty, on the other hand, does not arise in SA because no two concreta can have all their qualities in common.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "constant difficulty", ensure the context clearly establishes what is causing the difficulty. Providing specific examples will enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid overuse in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "persistent challenge" or "ongoing struggle" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constant difficulty" functions as a noun phrase, where "constant" modifies "difficulty". It describes a state or situation characterized by ongoing challenges, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constant difficulty" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe persistent and ongoing challenges. Ludwig AI indicates that it is acceptable for use in various contexts, ranging from formal to informal, although overuse should be avoided by considering alternatives like "ongoing struggle" or "persistent challenge". Its communicative purpose is to convey that a problem is not isolated, but rather a sustained issue. While "constant difficulty" appears across diverse sources, including news, science, and academic writing, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for broad audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ongoing struggle

Emphasizes the continuous and arduous nature of the challenge.

persistent challenge

Highlights the enduring and demanding aspect of the situation.

continuous hardship

Focuses on the sustained suffering or adversity.

unrelenting adversity

Stresses the absence of relief from difficult circumstances.

perpetual problem

Indicates a problem that never ceases or resolves itself.

incessant trouble

Highlights the unceasing nature of the difficulties.

chronic issue

Suggests a long-lasting and recurring difficulty.

recurring obstacle

Focuses on the repeated appearance of the hindrance.

never-ending battle

Emphasizes the prolonged and competitive nature of the difficulty.

constant source of frustration

Highlights the emotional impact of the enduring difficulty.

FAQs

How can I replace "constant difficulty" in a sentence?

Consider alternatives such as "ongoing struggle", "persistent challenge", or "continuous hardship" depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative offers a slightly different emphasis on the nature and duration of the problem.

What does "constant difficulty" imply about a situation?

It suggests that the problem is not only present but also continuous, without significant periods of relief or resolution. The issue is a recurring or sustained challenge.

Is it better to use "constant difficulty" or "frequent difficulty"?

The choice depends on the context. "Constant difficulty" implies an ongoing, uninterrupted problem, while "frequent difficulty" suggests that the problem occurs repeatedly but not necessarily without breaks. Choose the option that best describes the situation.

How formal is the phrase "constant difficulty"?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, you might consider more sophisticated alternatives such as "unremitting adversity" or "perpetual impediment" depending on the tone and audience.