difficult lesson

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult lesson" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a lesson or experience that is challenging or hard to learn from, often implying that it carries significant meaning or insight. Example: "After failing the exam, I realized it was a difficult lesson that taught me the importance of studying consistently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What was the most difficult lesson you have learned?

Stanford University

This can be a difficult lesson to learn.

The New York Times

And now the social media sites are learning the same difficult lesson.

Independent

Then there's the other difficult lesson of being human: Learning how to share.

The New York Times

What was the most difficult lesson you have learned on the job?

Stanford University

Yes the more we give the more we get ! difficult lesson for us all.

University of California, Berkeley

One line from his poem covers all bases: "Freedom is a difficult lesson to learn".

The Guardian - Books

12.01pm BST A difficult lesson in links life for young Jordan Spieth down 16.

The Guardian - Sport

PRATO, Italy — Over the years, Italy learned the difficult lesson that it could no longer compete with China on price.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Other difficult lessons are learned throughout the series.

The New York Times

Have you learned any difficult lessons through mistakes?

The Telegraph

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine the phrase with a specific outcome or action to show the impact. For example, "The experience was a "difficult lesson" that taught me the importance of preparation."

Common error

Avoid using "difficult lesson" for minor inconveniences or everyday setbacks. Reserve it for situations that involve significant challenges, emotional impact, or a substantial change in perspective. If you want to say that the math lesson was difficult you can specify that the subject was complex or sophisticated, however, don't relate the event as a "difficult lesson".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult lesson" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" modifies the noun "lesson". It describes a specific type of learning experience that is challenging or hard to grasp. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult lesson" is a commonly used expression to describe a challenging learning experience that leads to significant growth or understanding. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. Analysis reveals its frequent use in news media, academic, and scientific writing, suggesting a neutral to formal register.

Related phrases include "hard lesson to learn" and "tough lesson", each with slight nuances. When using this phrase, avoid overusing it for trivial situations and consider the specific impact of the lesson. This phrase is very informative and versatile for several different uses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hard lesson to learn

Emphasizes the effort required to understand and internalize the lesson.

tough lesson

Highlights the challenging or unpleasant aspects of the learning experience.

painful lesson

Focuses on the emotional discomfort or regret associated with the lesson.

unpleasant experience

Shifts the focus to the overall experience being negative, with learning as a component.

bitter pill to swallow

Emphasizes the difficulty in accepting the truth or reality revealed by the lesson.

eye-opening experience

Highlights the revelatory nature of the lesson, focusing on new understanding.

challenging ordeal

Stresses the demanding and testing nature of the situation that led to the lesson.

harsh reality check

Implies a sudden and unwelcome realization of a truth.

trial by fire

Suggests learning through a demanding and stressful experience.

humbling experience

Focuses on the lesson's impact on reducing arrogance or pride.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult lesson" to describe a challenging experience that leads to significant learning or growth. For example, "Losing the client was a "difficult lesson" in the importance of clear communication."

What's a similar phrase to "difficult lesson"?

Similar phrases include "hard lesson to learn", "tough lesson", or "painful lesson". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to use "difficult lesson" in formal writing?

Yes, "difficult lesson" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing serious or impactful events. Its use in academic and news media sources confirms its suitability.

What kind of situations warrant the use of "difficult lesson"?

Use "difficult lesson" when describing experiences that involve overcoming significant obstacles, facing harsh realities, or experiencing personal setbacks that lead to growth and improved understanding. Remember that its use needs to be related to a life changing event.