difficult passage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult passage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a section of text or a part of a journey that is challenging to navigate or understand. Example: "The author included a difficult passage that required careful analysis to fully grasp its meaning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A difficult passage in American history was thus smoothed over and made palatable and familiar.

The New York Times

There is reliable old Tozer, whom Hollander calls in whenever he needs a difficult passage paraphrased.

The New Yorker

She calls this "a difficult passage in which Freud foresaw that many women might go astray.

The New Yorker

"It was a difficult passage to Norwich," said Taras D. Szczur, the ship's spokesman.

The New York Times

And even then it would face a difficult passage through Congress.

The Economist

San Martín's challenge was to coordinate the difficult passage across the Andes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If I am driving, I need to turn off the radio and halt conversation in any difficult passage.

The New York Times

As they devour the road, taming every difficult passage, these M's are tuxedo-clad prodigies in a hushed concert hall.

The New York Times

But mounting anger over the sheer scale of concessions Athens will be forced to make will ensure that any deal faces a difficult passage.

The Guardian - Business

Over the next months, he said, pleadingly, that he could not write the book without her presence, and her diary documents its swift, difficult passage.

The New Yorker

The Koran, in a famously difficult passage, states that "they didn't crucify him: but it was made to seem so to them".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult passage" to describe text, be specific about what makes it difficult: is it complex vocabulary, convoluted sentence structure, or abstract concepts?

Common error

Avoid using "difficult passage" too broadly. Ensure the difficulty is inherent to the specific section being discussed, not just a general feeling of confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult passage" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a specific segment or portion that presents challenges, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult passage" is a versatile term used to describe a challenging section of text, a complicated journey, or a problematic phase. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, clarity is key; specify what makes the passage difficult to enhance understanding. Consider "challenging excerpt" or "tricky section" as alternatives depending on the context to best fit the level of difficulty described. Overall, "difficult passage" serves as a useful and accepted way to signal complexity or challenge in various forms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging excerpt

Focuses specifically on a section of a text that presents difficulties.

tricky section

Emphasizes the problematic or complex nature of a particular part.

complex portion

Highlights the intricate and elaborate nature of a segment.

arduous journey

Shifts the context to a challenging and strenuous experience or undertaking.

problematic situation

Generalizes the difficulty to a broader context or circumstance.

tough phase

Refers to a challenging period or stage in a process or life.

testing time

Highlights a period that evaluates one's resilience or abilities.

demanding segment

Stresses the high level of effort or skill required in a particular part.

convoluted narrative

Describes a storyline that is intricate and difficult to follow.

thorny issue

Indicates a sensitive and complicated problem requiring careful handling.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult passage" to describe a challenging section of text, music, or even a journey. For instance, "The student struggled with a difficult passage in the novel" or "The ship encountered a difficult passage through the stormy seas".

What are some synonyms for "difficult passage"?

Alternatives include "challenging excerpt", "tricky section", or "complex portion", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "difficult passage" in formal writing?

Yes, "difficult passage" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a challenging segment of text or experience. Consider also alternatives in your writing like "demanding segment".

What makes a "difficult passage" difficult?

A "difficult passage" can be challenging due to complex language, abstract ideas, intricate plots, or demanding physical conditions, depending on whether you are referring to text, a journey, or another type of experience.