difficult to dislodge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult to dislodge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is hard to remove or get rid of, whether physically or metaphorically. Example: "The stubborn stain on the carpet proved to be difficult to dislodge, despite numerous cleaning attempts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ms. Muñoz said they are difficult to dislodge.

The New York Times

Powerful family links make such people particularly difficult to dislodge in any struggle.

The Economist

But others say rent stabilization will make many residents difficult to dislodge.

The New York Times

And deflation, once entrenched, is fiercely difficult to dislodge, as Japan has found.

The Economist

If he loses, three strikes will be all the more difficult to dislodge.

The New York Times - Magazine

Besides, shareholder value is so deeply entrenched, it will be difficult to dislodge.

The New York Times

Isis may be unpopular in Mosul, but it will be difficult to dislodge.

Independent

Once conspiracy theories get established, they can be difficult to dislodge.

The Guardian

Now that they are in Tetovo, they may prove difficult to dislodge without heavy fighting.

The New York Times

He played here with a determination and grit which immediately made him difficult to dislodge.

Independent

Once in charge of a big health tender they will be very difficult to dislodge.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult to dislodge", consider the context. This phrase is suitable for describing tangible objects, abstract concepts, or even individuals in positions of power. Ensure that the subject you're describing genuinely presents a challenge to remove or displace.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult to dislodge" for situations where something is merely inconvenient to remove. This phrase implies a significant and persistent challenge, not a minor annoyance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult to dislodge" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that something is challenging to remove or displace. As shown by Ludwig, this construction is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "difficult to dislodge" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression that describes something hard to remove or displace. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, though it is also found in encyclopedias and scientific writing. While the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English, it's important to consider the degree of difficulty and avoid using it for situations that are merely inconvenient. Alternatives such as "hard to remove", "challenging to displace", and "tough to unseat" can be used depending on the specific context. Overall, this phrase is a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not easily dislodged

A simple rephrasing using an adverb.

hard to remove

Focuses on the effort required for physical removal.

challenging to displace

Highlights the difficulty in changing position or status.

tough to unseat

Implies a struggle to remove someone from a position of power.

resistant to removal

Emphasizes the inherent properties that hinder removal.

not easily uprooted

Suggests a deep entrenchment or strong foundation.

firmly entrenched

Indicates a solid and stable position that is difficult to change.

difficult to unseat

Refers to the challenge of removing someone from a position of authority.

tenacious in its hold

Emphasizes the strength and persistence of the grip.

stubborn to eliminate

Highlights the persistent nature making elimination challenging.

FAQs

How can I use "difficult to dislodge" in a sentence?

You can use "difficult to dislodge" to describe anything that is hard to remove or get rid of. For example: "The stain on the carpet was "difficult to dislodge", despite repeated cleaning attempts."

What can I say instead of "difficult to dislodge"?

You can use alternatives like "hard to remove", "challenging to displace", or "tough to unseat" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "difficult to dislodge" or "difficult to be dislodged"?

"Difficult to dislodge" is the more concise and commonly used phrasing. "Difficult to be dislodged" is grammatically correct but less idiomatic. The first option is preferred.

What is the difference between ""difficult to dislodge"" and "hard to remove"?

While both phrases suggest a challenge in removing something, ""difficult to dislodge"" often implies a more entrenched or resistant state than "hard to remove". "Hard to remove" can refer to simpler situations.