difficult circumstance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult circumstance" is correct and usable in written English.
Depending on context, it can refer to either a challenging situation or an obstacle that must be overcome. For example: "The soldier faced a difficult circumstance when his platoon was cut off from support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

This was a very difficult circumstance.

The New Yorker

"This was a difficult circumstance," Ms. Slatkin said in a statement.

The New York Times

"There's no question that this is a very unique and a very difficult circumstance for everyone," he said.

The New York Times

It need not a be war zone, or a similarly difficult circumstance — just any place where homesickness has a way of setting in at meal times.

The New York Times

At the Workforce1 office on East 149th Street, I watched a job counselor, Rhodina Smith, assisting someone in a better but still difficult circumstance.

The New York Times

Consumers should know that there are reputable credit counseling agencies available to help them overcome their financial woes and regain hope in a difficult circumstance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Did good in v difficult circumstances.

The Guardian

"We come in difficult circumstances".

The Guardian

It is working under incredibly difficult circumstances.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He came in under very difficult circumstances.

The New York Times - Sports

I faced very difficult circumstances as chancellor.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult circumstance", consider the specific nuance you want to convey: is it the challenge, the problem, or the hardship?

Common error

Avoid using "difficult circumstance" as a catch-all phrase. Instead, try to identify the specific nature of the situation and use more descriptive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult circumstance" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" modifies the noun "circumstance". Ludwig shows its usage across various contexts. The Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "difficult circumstance" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for describing a challenging or problematic situation. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. While interchangeable with terms like "challenging situation", it often implies a broader set of contributing factors. Remember to use the most descriptive term to avoid vagueness and consider the context when choosing an alternative. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and provides helpful examples of its usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging situation

Emphasizes the element of a challenge that needs to be overcome.

problematic situation

Highlights the presence of problems or issues within the situation.

tough predicament

Suggests a situation that is hard to escape or resolve.

adverse condition

Focuses on unfavorable or negative aspects of the situation.

unfavorable situation

Highlights the lack of positive elements or opportunities.

trying ordeal

Implies a prolonged and intensely difficult experience.

complex issue

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the problem.

delicate matter

Suggests the need for careful handling and sensitivity.

awkward situation

Highlights social discomfort or embarrassment.

untenable position

Focuses on the inability to maintain or defend a certain stance.

FAQs

How can I use "difficult circumstance" in a sentence?

You can use "difficult circumstance" to describe a challenging or problematic situation. For instance, "Navigating the economic downturn presented a "difficult circumstance" for many businesses."

What are some alternatives to "difficult circumstance"?

Depending on the specific context, alternatives to "difficult circumstance" include "challenging situation", "tough predicament", or "adverse condition".

Is it better to use "difficult situation" or "difficult circumstance"?

"Difficult situation" and "difficult circumstance" are often interchangeable, but "circumstance" can sometimes imply a broader set of contributing factors or surrounding conditions.

When is it appropriate to use "difficult circumstance" in formal writing?

"Difficult circumstance" is suitable for formal writing when describing a challenging or problematic situation, especially when you want to emphasize the surrounding context or contributing factors.