difficult message

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult message" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a message that is hard to understand, convey, or accept, often due to its content or implications. Example: "Delivering a difficult message to the team about budget cuts was challenging for the manager."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

It's about tone and how you pass along a difficult message.

The New York Times

That is a difficult message for any product to convey, even in the best of times.

The New York Times

Peggy A. Whitson, the chief of the astronaut office, delivered the difficult message.

The New York Times

Obama understands that he is an imperfect vehicle for an already difficult message.

The New Yorker

"Now, does that make it a more difficult message to explain to gay people who want to vote Conservative?

Independent

It was a more difficult message to deliver than his original declaration of war against the terrorists.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

But these are difficult messages to convey.

The Economist

Most importantly, says Atkin, the video has been effective in sharing difficult messages with Halton's residents.

The Guardian

For Meakin, a tenant of Aspire Housing, face-to-face contact is the most effective was to share difficult messages.

The Guardian

One of the many difficult messages to get across, however, is that change will not come quickly.

The Guardian

It's really, really important, where there are difficult messages, that press statements must be clear and not cause confusion".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When delivering a "difficult message", carefully consider your audience and tailor your communication style to their needs and sensitivities. Clarity and empathy are key.

Common error

Avoid obscuring the core issue with excessive euphemisms when conveying a "difficult message". While softening the tone is important, clarity prevents misunderstandings and builds trust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult message" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "difficult" is an adjective modifying the noun "message". It describes the quality of the message as being challenging to convey, receive, or accept. As seen in Ludwig, this often relates to sensitive or unwelcome news.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult message" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a communication that is challenging to convey or receive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in English writing. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its purpose is often to signal the sensitive or unwelcome nature of the information being shared. While direct and honest communication is advised when delivering such a message, excessive euphemisms should be avoided to maintain clarity. Alternative phrases, such as "challenging communication" or "sensitive issue to discuss", can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. In essence, "difficult message" serves as a practical and recognized way to frame potentially complex or uncomfortable communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging communication

Focuses on the act of communicating rather than the message itself; emphasizes the demanding nature of the exchange.

tough piece of news

Replaces "message" with "news" and uses "tough" instead of "difficult", indicating bad or unpleasant information.

unwelcome information

Highlights the negative reception the message might receive, shifting focus from the difficulty to the unpleasantness.

problematic announcement

Emphasizes the potential issues or complications arising from the message, using "problematic" to describe the message.

sensitive issue to discuss

Focuses on the delicate nature of the topic being communicated, using "sensitive issue" instead of "message".

delicate matter to convey

Similar to "sensitive issue", but emphasizes the careful handling required in conveying the information.

uncomfortable truth to tell

Highlights the discomfort associated with revealing the information, focusing on honesty and potential negative reactions.

awkward subject to broach

Emphasizes the social unease or difficulty in initiating the conversation about the message.

contentious point to raise

Highlights the potential for disagreement or conflict arising from the message, using "contentious point".

vexing subject matter

Emphasizes the troublesome or irritating nature of the topic being communicated.

FAQs

How can I deliver a "difficult message" effectively?

Prepare thoroughly, be direct and honest, show empathy, and be open to discussion. Focus on facts and avoid personal attacks. Choose an appropriate time and place for the conversation.

What are some alternative ways to say "difficult message"?

You can use phrases like "challenging communication", "tough piece of news", or "sensitive issue to discuss", depending on the context.

Is it better to avoid delivering a "difficult message" if possible?

While tempting, avoiding a "difficult message" can lead to bigger problems. Addressing issues directly, though challenging, usually fosters better long-term relationships and outcomes.

What should I do after delivering a "difficult message"?

Allow time for the recipient to process the information. Be available to answer questions and provide support. Follow up to ensure understanding and address any remaining concerns.