difficult as it seems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult as it seems" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something may appear challenging, but there may be more to it than meets the eye. Example: "Many people think learning a new language is daunting, but it's not as difficult as it seems with the right approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

But this issue is not as difficult as it seems.

The New York Times

Coordinating a synchronized routine is not as difficult as it seems, they said.

The New York Times - Sports

So as difficult as it seems like it can be, you're ahead of the game.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But reaching a firm conclusion is difficult as it seems the much maligned HE White Paper is unlikely to result in a parliamentary bill.

The Guardian

Mobile apps can help drivers find cheap spaces (though, ironically, most drivers will have to pull over before using their phones).Convincing people to pay for parking may not be as difficult as it seems.

The Economist

That should not be as difficult as it seems, because the basic idea that dominated economics and politics in the last century has patently disappeared down the plughole of history.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Aqtash told me when I visited him in Ramallah that his job was not as difficult as it seemed to outsiders.

The New Yorker

The evening demonstrated that pairing wine with Chinese cuisine wasn't as difficult as it seemed, save a few Sichuan peppercorns.

The New York Times - Arts

In opting to attend Northwestern, though, Fitzpatrick has postponed his dream of playing professionally for at least a little while, a decision that his mother said was not as difficult as it seemed.

The New York Times - Sports

Taken together, the effect of ALS inhibition on levels of individual amino acids is difficult to predict, as it seems to depend on the level of residual ALS activity in different tissues, and the feedback-inhibition effect of (combinations) of individual amino acids.

BMC Plant Biology

Yet understanding laws relevant to your career is not as difficult or time-consuming as it seems.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, follow up with a specific explanation or example illustrating how the situation is actually more manageable. For example, "Learning to code might seem daunting, but it's not as difficult as it seems with online tutorials and practice."

Common error

Avoid using "difficult as it seems" as a generic encouragement without providing concrete reasons why the task is simpler than perceived; this can undermine your credibility and discourage your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult as it seems" functions as an introductory remark used to preface a statement that challenges a common assumption or initial perception. It prepares the audience to consider that something is not as hard or complicated as they might believe. Ludwig confirms this expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult as it seems" serves as a conversational bridge, inviting audiences to reconsider initial impressions of complexity. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in diverse contexts, notably news, wiki entries, and science. Usage tips emphasize the importance of offering concrete examples to back up the claim that things are not as hard as they look. By understanding the nuances of this phrase, writers can effectively encourage open-mindedness and challenge preconceived notions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Not as challenging as it appears

Focuses on the unexpectedly lower level of challenge compared to initial impressions.

Easier than one might think

Emphasizes the simplicity relative to presumed complexity.

Not as complicated as it looks

Highlights a straightforward reality behind a complex facade.

More manageable than expected

Underscores the feasibility and ease of handling a situation.

Simpler than it seems at first glance

Highlights that initial assessment is inaccurate.

Turns out to be not so hard

Refers to the actual execution as less hard than expected.

More accessible than anticipated

Focuses on ease of approach or attainment that defies expectations.

Deceptively straightforward

Emphasizes that the directness or simplicity is not immediately obvious.

Achievable despite appearances

Highlights the possibility of success even when facing initial discouragement.

Surprisingly uncomplicated

Draws attention to the unexpected lack of complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "difficult as it seems" in a sentence?

You can use "difficult as it seems" to introduce a perspective that challenges an initial perception of complexity. For instance, "Negotiating a salary increase can be intimidating, but it's not as difficult as it seems with thorough preparation."

What is a good alternative to "difficult as it seems"?

Alternatives include phrases like "easier than one might think", "not as challenging as it appears", or "simpler than it seems at first glance", each emphasizing a surprising ease or manageability.

Is it correct to say "not as difficult as it seems"?

Yes, "not as difficult as it seems" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that suggests something is less challenging than initially perceived.

What's the difference between "difficult as it seems" and "unlikely as it seems"?

"Difficult as it seems" addresses an initial perception of complexity or hardship, while "unlikely as it seems" acknowledges something is improbable but true. The former deals with perceived difficulty, the latter with perceived improbability.