difficult path

USAGE SUMMARY

"difficult path" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a difficult journey, course of action, or situation. For example: "Though the financial path we have chosen may not be the most rewarding, it is certainly the most difficult."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I choose the difficult path.

Yale University

But 33... h5 was a difficult path.

The New York Times

"We have chosen a very difficult path," he said.

The New York Times

Still, it was a difficult path to travel again.

The New York Times

"I do choose the difficult path," she says.

The New York Times

The Nets have a difficult path to the N.B.A. title.

The New York Times

Each trod their own difficult path to socialism.

The Guardian

Trump faces a much more difficult path to victory.

The Guardian

If Hingis had a difficult path, so did Capriati.

The New York Times - Sports

He wasn't alone in treading this difficult path.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It could prove a difficult path for Mr. Thompson.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "difficult path", consider the specific challenges and obstacles involved. Providing concrete details can make your writing more impactful and relatable.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult path" as a generic substitute for any challenge. Ensure the phrase accurately reflects a journey or process marked by significant and persistent obstacles, rather than a simple inconvenience. Be specific about the nature of the difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult path" functions primarily as a noun phrase, with "difficult" modifying the noun "path". It serves to describe the nature of a route, journey, or course of action, indicating that it is fraught with challenges and obstacles. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult path" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a challenging journey, process, or situation. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It effectively conveys the presence of significant obstacles and the need for perseverance. While appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, writers should be mindful of potential clichés and strive for specificity in their descriptions. Alternatives like "arduous journey" or "challenging route" can provide nuanced shades of meaning. The phrase sees frequent usage in News & Media, followed by Academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arduous journey

Emphasizes the effort and stamina required, focusing on the journey aspect.

challenging route

Highlights the obstacles and tests encountered along the way.

demanding course

Focuses on the rigorous and taxing nature of the path.

tough road

A more colloquial alternative, suggesting hardship and resilience.

strenuous undertaking

Highlights the effort and energy required to complete the path.

thorny issue

Implies a path filled with problems and complications.

bumpy ride

Suggests instability and unpredictable difficulties along the way.

taxing endeavor

Focuses on the draining effect of the path on resources and energy.

complex situation

Highlights the intricacy and multi-layered challenges of the path.

precarious position

Emphasizes the instability and potential danger of the path.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult path" to describe a challenging journey, process, or situation. For example, "Starting a business is often a "difficult path", filled with unexpected obstacles".

What are some alternatives to "difficult path"?

Alternatives to "difficult path" include "arduous journey", "challenging route", or "tough road", depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "difficult path" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, though in more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "demanding course" or "strenuous undertaking" for a more sophisticated tone.

What makes a path 'difficult'?

A "difficult path" implies significant challenges, obstacles, and effort required to achieve a goal. It suggests a journey that is not straightforward and demands resilience and perseverance.