difficult option

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult option" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing choices or alternatives that are challenging or not easy to pursue. Example: "Choosing between a stable job and pursuing my passion was a difficult option to consider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

A tribal council is a popular but difficult option for the "nation builders" to make viable.

The New York Times

Because of the aesthete-queen's high visibility, the arts could be a difficult option for less confident men.

The Guardian - Books

But I think I took the difficult option: I have to work twice as hard to win a place.

The Guardian - Sport

Officials noted that some provisions of the law can be enforced only through formal inspections, a difficult option when the city has not issued licenses to begin with.

The New York Times

One thorny question is whether new statutory duties will soon be required, to make plain that reporting abuse is not a difficult option but a professional obligation.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is a difficult option, but it has been a way for some to keep their home from dragging them under while they search for a new job.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Experience with slowdowns can give executives the perspective needed to choose wisely among difficult options.

The New York Times

What I'm very confident about is that given the difficult options before us, we are making good, thoughtful decisions.

The New York Times

The British and Irish governments now face a series of difficult options with a deadline of midnight this Saturday.

The New York Times

As she told Ms. Buchman, now she has two difficult options to weigh in the coming days and she "hates them both".

The New York Times

He must now choose between two equally difficult options: to back Davies and break his "no ifs, no buts" promise, or to overrule Davies and either support expansion of Gatwick (which will anger many business leaders) or delay yet again.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult option", ensure the context clearly conveys why the option is challenging. Be specific about the obstacles or potential drawbacks.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is a "difficult option" without elaborating on the reasons. Provide context to explain the specific challenges involved, such as resource constraints, ethical considerations, or potential risks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult option" functions as a noun phrase where "difficult" modifies the noun "option". It describes a choice or alternative that is not easy or straightforward. Ludwig confirms that it's grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

30%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult option" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a choice that presents challenges or drawbacks. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous sources indicates that it's most frequently used in News & Media and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral register. When employing this phrase, ensure you provide specific details about why the option is challenging, avoiding vague generalities. As suggested by Ludwig, alternatives such as "challenging choice" or "tough decision" can be used to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging choice

Replaces "option" with "choice", emphasizing the decision-making aspect while maintaining the sense of difficulty.

tough decision

Substitutes both "difficult" and "option" with synonyms, highlighting the demanding nature of the decision.

problematic alternative

Replaces "difficult" with "problematic" and "option" with "alternative", focusing on the potential issues associated with the choice.

unpleasant possibility

Shifts the focus to the negative aspects of the option, emphasizing its undesirability.

awkward solution

Implies that the solution is not ideal or comfortable, similar to a "difficult option".

complicated route

Uses a metaphor of a journey, indicating that the chosen path is intricate and demanding.

demanding course of action

Highlights the effort and resources required to pursue the option.

onerous selection

Emphasizes the burden or hardship associated with making the choice.

trying alternative

Suggests that the alternative will test one's abilities or patience.

inconvenient preference

Highlights the lack of convenience in the chosen option.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult option" to describe a choice that presents challenges or drawbacks. For example: "Pursuing further education while working full-time is a "difficult option", but it can lead to long-term career advancement."

What are some alternatives to saying "difficult option"?

Alternatives include "challenging choice", "tough decision", or "problematic alternative", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "difficult choice" or "difficult option"?

Both "difficult choice" and ""difficult option"" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The best choice depends on the specific context; "choice" may emphasize the act of selecting, while "option" may focus on the available possibilities.

What makes something a "difficult option" rather than just a "choice"?

A "difficult option" implies that the choice involves significant challenges, risks, or drawbacks, setting it apart from a straightforward or easy selection. It suggests that careful consideration and potentially sacrifices are required.