difficult truths

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficult truths" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing challenging or uncomfortable realities that need to be acknowledged. For example, "Facing difficult truths can lead to personal growth." Alternative expressions include "harsh realities," "uncomfortable facts," and "challenging realities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It will mean accepting some difficult truths.

The Guardian

But be prepared for difficult truths.

The Guardian - Books

He's going to have to acknowledge a few difficult truths.

The New York Times

If Rodgers really is ready to adjust to difficult truths.

The Guardian - Sport

It can also be a way to avoid difficult truths.

The New York Times - Arts

We should honor Mr. Wojnarowicz instead of vilifying him for his courage in articulating difficult truths.

The New York Times

To not become a country that places comfortable lies ahead of difficult truths.

The New York Times

We let in the brazen liar and his hidden, difficult truths.

The New York Times - Books

His brilliant, highly audible forms exist not as entertainment, but to help us understand difficult truths.

Independent

"I discovered that there are difficult truths that are to be written without being anonymous.

The Guardian - Books

But there are powerful signs of hope to challenge these difficult truths.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult truths", ensure the context clearly indicates why the truths are considered difficult, providing sufficient background for the reader to understand the challenges involved.

Common error

Don't use "difficult truths" without providing context. Explain what makes these truths difficult to accept or confront, otherwise, your statement might lack impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult truths" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "difficult" modifies the noun "truths". It describes realities that are challenging or uncomfortable to acknowledge. As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase is widely used across different contexts to highlight realities that require courage to confront.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Books

12%

Opinion

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult truths" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression for describing realities that are challenging to acknowledge or confront. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in reputable news sources, books, and opinion pieces. When using this phrase, it is essential to provide context to clarify why the truths are considered difficult. Alternatives such as "unpleasant realities" or "inconvenient facts" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the implications and usage patterns of "difficult truths" can help writers communicate more effectively and with greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unpleasant realities

Focuses on the disagreeable nature of the truths, emphasizing the discomfort they cause.

inconvenient facts

Highlights how these truths disrupt or complicate existing situations or beliefs.

harsh realities

Emphasizes the severe or grim nature of the truths.

uncomfortable facts

Underscores the unease associated with acknowledging these truths.

challenging realities

Highlights the demanding or testing aspect of the truths.

unpalatable truths

Focuses on the disagreeable nature of the truths making them hard to accept.

bitter realities

Emphasizes the painful or distressing nature of the truths.

sobering facts

Highlights the sobering or serious implications of the truths.

stark realities

Focuses on the harsh or bare nature of the truths.

unpleasant facts

Focuses specifically on the unpleasant aspect of certain facts.

FAQs

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

You can use "difficult truths" to describe realities that are challenging to accept or confront. For example: "The report forced the company to face some "difficult truths" about its environmental impact."

What are some alternatives to saying "difficult truths"?

Alternatives include "unpleasant realities", "inconvenient facts", or "harsh realities", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to elaborate when referring to "difficult truths"?

While not always mandatory, providing context can significantly enhance clarity. Briefly explaining why the truths are considered difficult helps the audience understand the full implications of the statement.

What distinguishes "difficult truths" from "inconvenient truths"?

"Difficult truths" generally refer to realities that are hard to accept or confront on a personal or emotional level, while "inconvenient truths" typically denote facts that complicate existing plans, beliefs, or situations.