difficult to implement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult to implement" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing challenges or obstacles related to executing a plan, idea, or project. Example: "The new software features are promising, but they are proving to be difficult to implement within the existing system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor should it be difficult to implement.

The Economist

Yet it remains politically difficult to implement.

The Economist

Yet reform proved difficult to implement.

The New York Times - Magazine

But very difficult to implement.

University of California, Berkeley

"It is very difficult to implement".

The Guardian

"Video replay is too difficult to implement.

The Guardian - Sport

Bertarelli's proposals could be difficult to implement.

The New York Times - Sports

But it may prove difficult to implement.

MIT Technology Review

Both these factors are difficult to implement.

Land Use Policy

"The governors said this would be extraordinarily difficult to implement.

The New York Times

At that point it's difficult to implement the desired strategy".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult to implement", provide context by explaining the specific reasons for the difficulty. For example, mention resource constraints, technical limitations, or regulatory hurdles.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult to implement" without specifying why something is challenging. Saying "the plan is difficult to implement" is less effective than saying "the plan is difficult to implement due to budget constraints and lack of skilled personnel."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult to implement" functions as an adjective phrase modifying an implied noun (e.g., a plan, strategy, or idea) and an infinitive indicating an action. As shown by Ludwig, it often describes a quality or characteristic of something that presents challenges when put into action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult to implement" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe plans, strategies, or ideas that face significant challenges during execution. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is used across various domains, including news, science, and academia, reflecting its broad applicability. While alternatives like "challenging to execute" or "hard to put into practice" exist, "difficult to implement" effectively conveys the complexities and potential obstacles involved in translating an idea into reality. When using this phrase, provide specific context about the reasons for the difficulty to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenging to execute

Emphasizes the demanding nature of the execution process.

hard to put into practice

Focuses on the practical application aspect.

not easily realized

Highlights the struggle to make something a reality.

presents implementation challenges

Specifically points out the obstacles during implementation.

faces significant hurdles in execution

Indicates substantial obstacles to overcome.

encounters practical obstacles

Highlights real-world problems during the process.

demands complex realization

Stresses the intricate nature of making something real.

requires a sophisticated approach

Suggests a need for an advanced and elaborate strategy.

poses logistical problems

Indicates difficulties related to organization and coordination.

is operationally complex

Highlights the intricacy of the operational aspects.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult to implement" to describe plans, ideas, or strategies that face challenges during execution. For instance, "The new policy is "difficult to implement" due to its complexity".

What are some alternatives to "difficult to implement"?

Alternatives include "challenging to execute", "hard to put into practice", or "not easily realized", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes something "difficult to implement"?

Factors contributing to something being "difficult to implement" can include resource limitations, complex logistics, regulatory obstacles, technical challenges, or lack of expertise.

Is it better to say "difficult to implement" or "hard to implement"?

Both "difficult to implement" and "hard to implement" are acceptable. "Difficult" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal. The best choice depends on the overall tone and style of your writing.