difficult matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue that is complex or challenging to address. Example: "The committee faced a difficult matter when deciding on the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That is a more difficult matter.

The New York Times - Books

BRITO: The manufacturers are a difficult matter.

The New York Times

It's a terribly difficult matter to work out.

The New Yorker

It is another — and often very difficult — matter to conclude that "this will work there".

The New York Times

"THE naming of cats is a difficult matter, it isn't just one of your holiday games".

The Economist

In his case, however, defining that original audience is a difficult matter.

The New Yorker

"I have been thinking about it," Mr. Caballero said, "but it is a difficult matter.

The New York Times

And so to the difficult matter of what on earth it's about.

The Guardian - Film

For much of the left, this has been a difficult matter.

The Guardian - Books

Then there's the difficult matter of negotiating a muddy field in eight-inch stilettos.

The Guardian - Travel

Another difficult matter is prisons; an estimated 70% of the inmates of one in Lyon are Muslim.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult matter", ensure that the context clearly indicates the specific nature of the difficulty. This can be achieved by providing additional details or explanations to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While acceptable in formal writing, overuse in casual conversation can sound stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "tough issue" or "complicated situation" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult matter" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a topic, situation, or problem that presents challenges or complexities. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult matter" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies a challenging or complex issue. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's frequently found in various sources, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, showcasing its broad applicability. While versatile, it's important to consider the context when using "difficult matter", opting for simpler alternatives in casual conversation to avoid sounding overly formal. Related phrases such as "knotty matter", "sticky matter", and "complex matter" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas. Understanding these nuances allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knotty matter

Replaces "difficult" with "knotty", implying a complex and intricate problem.

sticky matter

Substitutes "difficult" with "sticky", suggesting a problem that is troublesome and hard to resolve.

serious matter

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences of the issue.

awkward matter

Highlights the uncomfortable or delicate nature of the situation.

tricky matter

Indicates that the situation requires careful handling and cleverness.

thorny matter

Similar to "knotty", but also suggests potential pain or conflict.

delicate matter

Implies the need for sensitivity and tact when dealing with the issue.

complex matter

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted nature of the issue.

problematic matter

Highlights the presence of problems and potential negative outcomes.

troublesome matter

Suggests that the issue is causing worry or difficulty.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult matter" to describe a situation, problem, or topic that is challenging or complex. For example, "Resolving the dispute became a "difficult matter" for the negotiators".

What are some alternatives to "difficult matter"?

Alternatives to "difficult matter" include phrases like "knotty matter", "complex matter", or "tricky matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "difficult matter" or "difficult situation"?

Both "difficult matter" and "difficult situation" are correct, but "difficult matter" is often used when referring to a topic or issue that needs to be addressed, while "difficult situation" refers to a set of circumstances. Choose the phrasing based on the context.

What makes something a "difficult matter"?

A "difficult matter" implies that the subject at hand is complex, requires careful consideration, and may be challenging to resolve due to various factors, such as conflicting opinions or lack of clear solutions.