deep difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or problem that is particularly challenging or complex. Example: "The team faced deep difficulty in finding a solution to the technical issues that arose during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

They have a deep difficulty understanding the issues".

The New York Times - Science

Jobs can be shed if need be, he says: 8,500 went in 1992, when Lufthansa was in deep difficulty.

The Economist

"If another model of Shariah says that you have to resist, this will create a deep difficulty," said Abdulaziz Algasim, a Saudi lawyer.

The New York Times

In 2008, only five NATO members met a target of spending a minimum of 2 percent of gross domestic product on defense; one of them, Greece, is in deep difficulty over its debts.

The New York Times

Yet in Jenner's desire to please us, I Am Cait turns into an odd combination of reality TV and after-school special, overlooking both the deep difficulty and complexity of trans, as well as the excitement of conflict that makes for compelling television.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It is also causing deep difficulty for employers, both in the public and private sector.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But despite a $7 billion annual research budget, Pfizer has had deep difficulties bringing new drugs to market.

The New York Times

Since we have reduced democracy to selecting representatives, and reduced representative democracy to mean simply voting, a valuable system is now mired in deep difficulties.

The Guardian

Still, that Mr. Gingrich is struggling to hold his ground even along the Georgia border is a sign of his deep difficulties tonight.

The New York Times

Things in Collyhurst are different now – "It's gone from somewhere no one wanted to go to, to a place where people do want to come and live," says Reeves – but deep difficulties remain.

The Guardian

In effect, Swissair was buying customers for the aviation-service businesses it was also acquiring.But the real clincher was that nearly all the airlines it was buying into were in deep difficulties.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deep difficulty" to convey a sense of severity or complexity beyond a simple problem. It suggests that addressing the difficulty will require significant effort and insight.

Common error

Avoid using "deep difficulty" when a simpler term like "problem" or "challenge" suffices. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic or unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep difficulty" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "deep" modifies the noun "difficulty". It intensifies the severity or complexity of the difficulty being described. Ludwig AI shows it's often used to highlight significant challenges across various domains.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deep difficulty" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's used to convey a significant challenge or complex problem, suitable for neutral to professional contexts. While not overly common, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants the emphasis on severity or complexity, and consider alternatives like "significant challenge" or "serious problem" if a simpler expression suffices. Remember to avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant challenge

Emphasizes the challenging aspect, rather than the problematic one.

profound challenge

Highlights the depth and complexity of the challenge.

formidable challenge

Emphasizes the intimidating and demanding nature of the challenge.

serious problem

Focuses on the problematic aspect, indicating a grave issue.

major obstacle

Stresses the hindering aspect, implying something blocking progress.

substantial hurdle

Similar to obstacle, but suggests something to be overcome.

intricate issue

Highlights the complexity and interwoven nature of the problem.

complex predicament

Emphasizes the complicated and difficult situation.

severe adversity

Indicates a state of great hardship and suffering.

grave predicament

Highlights the serious and dangerous nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "deep difficulty" in a sentence?

You can use "deep difficulty" to describe situations that are especially challenging or complex. For instance, "The project encountered "deep difficulty" in its initial stages."

What are some alternatives to "deep difficulty"?

Alternatives include "significant challenge", "serious problem", or "major obstacle". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "deep difficulty" a formal or informal expression?

"Deep difficulty" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, although in very informal settings, simpler terms like "big problem" might be preferred.

How does "deep difficulty" differ from "slight difficulty"?

"Deep difficulty" implies a serious and complex challenge, while "slight difficulty" suggests a minor and easily resolvable issue. The adjective changes the magnitude of the challenge entirely.