Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
express difficulty
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "express difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of conveying or articulating challenges or obstacles one is facing. Example: "During the meeting, she was able to express difficulty in managing her workload effectively."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
Patients participating in voice therapy often express difficulty replicating therapy targets during their independent home practice.
Science
Those with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) express difficulty in knowing where their affected limb is positioned.
Science
In particular, clinicians express difficulty with their ability to deprescribe (i.e. reduce or stop medications that are potentially inappropriate).
When I pointed out that some transplants express difficulty being inspired by the garment district, Ms. Gazinskaya laughed and described her neighborhood in Moscow.
News & Media
As Vadjunec and Sheehan (2010, p. 170), who have studied State Trust Land policies in Cimarron County, explain, "with their future now uncertain (in five-year increments with no preferential treatment given to the lessee), many land managers express difficulty caring for leased land like it was their own, as they have done in the past".
Science
Even young people who self-harm (broadly defined) express difficulty understanding self-harm in others [ 17].
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
People who highlighted difficulties in accepting tooth loss took significantly longer to come to terms with it compared with the people who did not express difficulties (P < 0.001, χ2 test).
Science & Research
Some of the qualitative answers to both questions express difficulties of comparing those individual terms.
Bodies exiting a pipe express difficulties with the prison system.
News & Media
Phenex also allows a curator to add human-readable comments to a post-composition, for example to express difficulties in interpretation of the published character description.
Science
Diagnosis and managing FM is challenging for physicians, especially PCPs and psychiatrists, but other specialties, including rheumatologists, also express difficulties.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "express difficulty", clearly specify the area or task where the difficulty is encountered to provide context and clarity.
Common error
Avoid stating that someone "expresses difficulty" without clarifying what specific task or area they are struggling with. Always provide context.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "express difficulty" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the act of communicating or making known that someone is facing challenges or problems. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
20%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "express difficulty" is a valid and useful way to describe the act of communicating challenges or struggles. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys that someone is articulating problems they are facing. When using this phrase, ensure you provide enough context to specify where the difficulty lies. Alternatives such as "articulate challenges" or "voice concerns" can be used for similar effect.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
articulate challenges
Focuses on clearly communicating the challenges faced.
communicate struggles
Highlights the communication of ongoing efforts against obstacles.
convey challenges
Highlights the act of transmitting or making challenges known.
voice concerns
Emphasizes the expression of worry or unease about something.
raise issues
Draws attention to specific problems or points of discussion.
indicate problems
Signals the presence of issues or difficulties.
share hardships
Focuses on the communication of difficulties or suffering.
reveal obstacles
Uncovers or makes known existing impediments.
disclose struggles
Formally makes known efforts against difficulties.
air grievances
Publicly express complaints or dissatisfaction.
FAQs
How can I use "express difficulty" in a sentence?
You can use "express difficulty" to describe someone communicating that they are having trouble with something. For example, "The students "expressed difficulty" understanding the complex formula".
What are some alternatives to "express difficulty"?
Some alternatives include "articulate challenges", "voice concerns", or "raise issues", depending on the context.
Is it better to say "express difficulty" or "have difficulty"?
Both "express difficulty" and "have difficulty" are correct, but "express difficulty" emphasizes the act of communicating the problem, while "have difficulty" simply states the existence of a problem.
What's the difference between "express difficulty" and "encounter difficulty"?
"Express difficulty" means to communicate that one is having trouble, while "encounter difficulty" means to experience a problem. They are related but not interchangeable; you can "encounter difficulty" and then "express difficulty" about it.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested