difficult task

USAGE SUMMARY

"difficult task" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a task that requires a lot of effort. For example, "Writing a thesis paper was a difficult task, but I was able to finish it with hard work and dedication".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a difficult task.

The Economist

That's a difficult task".

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Minor's most difficult task?

The New York Times

He had a difficult task.

The New York Times

It wasn't a difficult task.

The New York Times - Travel

Ranieri has a difficult task.

The New York Times - Sports

He faces a difficult task.

The New York Times

It's a very difficult task.

The Guardian

It was a difficult task.

The Guardian

"That is really not a difficult task".

The New York Times

Later, that became a difficult task.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult task", ensure the context clearly explains why the task is challenging. Providing specific details about the obstacles or complexities involved will enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the difficulty of the task unless it is genuinely warranted. Overusing phrases like "extremely difficult task" can dilute the impact and credibility of your writing. Instead, opt for more nuanced descriptions that accurately reflect the level of challenge involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult task" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It describes an activity or undertaking that requires significant effort or skill. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a grammatically correct phrase and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "difficult task" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to describe undertakings that demand significant effort. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating its broad applicability. While synonyms like "challenging endeavor" or "arduous undertaking" can add nuance, "difficult task" remains a clear and effective choice for conveying the level of challenge involved. Remember to provide context when using this phrase to clearly articulate why the task is difficult.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging endeavor

Emphasizes the demanding and stimulating nature of the task.

arduous undertaking

Highlights the effort and persistence required.

formidable challenge

Stresses the size and intimidating nature of the task.

complex assignment

Focuses on the intricate and multifaceted aspects.

tough job

A more informal way of expressing the difficulty.

demanding responsibility

Highlights the burden and expectations associated with the task.

laborious effort

Emphasizes the hard work and physical exertion involved.

onerous duty

Stresses the unpleasant or burdensome nature of the task.

trying experience

Focuses on the testing and challenging nature of the task.

Herculean task

Implies the task requires immense strength, courage, or effort.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult task" to describe any undertaking that requires significant effort, skill, or perseverance. For example, "Negotiating the contract proved to be a "difficult task"." or "Convincing the board was a "difficult task", but we managed to succeed."

What are some alternatives to "difficult task"?

Some alternatives to "difficult task" include "challenging endeavor", "arduous undertaking", or "formidable challenge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "difficult task" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe a challenging undertaking. However, consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "arduous undertaking" or "formidable challenge" for added impact.

Which is correct, "a difficult task" or "the difficult task"?

"A difficult task" is used when referring to one of many difficult tasks or a general instance. "The difficult task" is used when referring to a specific task that has already been mentioned or is understood in context. For example, "He was assigned a "difficult task"." (one of many), vs. "The "difficult task" he faced was negotiating with the union" (a specific, known task).