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
faced with difficulty
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "faced with difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to something that is difficult, or when you want to describe a situation that is particularly challenging. For example: "The team was faced with difficulty when they encountered a technical problem with their project."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
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
9 human-written examples
Public infrastructure has long been faced with difficulty in financing.
Science
When faced with difficulty, we all only have two choices.
News & Media
In them, the tenuous processes of ego-formation risk collapse; faced with difficulty clarifying the boundaries of the self, the subject reverts to ambivalent aggressivity.
Science
However, differently from the linear equation case, we are faced with difficulty that the weak convergence of the controlled state (y u_{n} )) is insufficient to cover the convergence of the nonlinear part of Eq. (1.3).
Science
In physics resilience is a material's capacity to absorb shocks without breaking, while in psychology it is the human ability to positively reorganise one's life when faced with difficulty, without damaging one's own identity.
Before the revelations of the Novetta report, Chinese state counselor Yang Jiechi emphasized, "Dialogue and cooperation between China and the U.S. in the field of cybersecurity is faced with difficulty due to the wrong actions taken by the American side.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
51 human-written examples
The team members must work together to make joint decisions, but are often faced with difficulties when trying to reach agreements.
Science
"Being fortunate enough to lead a life of service by working with those most vulnerable makes me well aware of life's blessings, even when faced with difficulties".
News & Media
The findings suggest that cognitive mediators of overt social behavior and ability to solve problems when faced with difficulties need to be considered in the study of children's social relations.
Academia
This controversy is especially enhanced in a small and dense country like Israel, where efforts to achieve sustainable development are faced with difficulties typical of sensitive ecological regions and rapid population growth.
Science
Pattern users are faced with difficulties in understanding when and how to use the increasing number of available design patterns due the inherent ambiguity in the existing means (textual and graphical) of describing them.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "faced with difficulty", ensure the context clearly indicates the source or nature of the difficulty. Providing specific details enhances clarity and impact.
Common error
Avoid overuse of the passive voice when using "faced with difficulty". While grammatically correct, excessive passive voice can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Instead, consider active constructions to strengthen your message.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "faced with difficulty" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is experiencing or encountering some form of hardship or challenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a grammatically sound and usable expression.
Frequent in
Science
37%
News & Media
33%
Formal & Business
7%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
3%
Wiki
3%
Academia
3%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "faced with difficulty" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe situations where challenges or hardships are encountered. As Ludwig AI explains, it is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, from personal struggles to technical issues. While it is generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to provide specific details about the nature of the difficulty to enhance clarity. Remember to be mindful of overuse of passive voice, and consider more active constructions to strengthen your writing. Alternatives like "encountered challenges" or "struggled with" can be considered for nuanced expression.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
confronted with a challenge
Emphasizes active engagement with the difficulty.
met with obstacles
Focuses on encountering hindrances along a path.
contended with adversity
Highlights the struggle against unfavorable conditions.
grappled with a problem
Implies a more direct and intense struggle.
dealt with a setback
Focuses on a temporary reversal or delay.
experienced hardship
Highlights the suffering or privation involved.
endured tribulation
Implies a prolonged and severe period of difficulty.
undergone a trial
Focuses on a test of one's abilities or character.
navigated a complex situation
Emphasizes the need for careful maneuvering and problem-solving.
overcame an obstacle
Highlights the successful resolution of a challenge.
FAQs
How can I use "faced with difficulty" in a sentence?
You can use "faced with difficulty" to describe a situation where someone or something is experiencing challenges. For example: "The project team was "faced with difficulty" due to unforeseen technical issues".
What are some alternatives to "faced with difficulty"?
Alternatives include phrases like "encountered challenges", "struggled with", or "contended with", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.
Is "faced with difficulty" formal or informal?
"Faced with difficulty" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for highly formal writing, you might consider more sophisticated synonyms.
What's the difference between "faced with difficulty" and "presented with a challenge"?
"Faced with difficulty" emphasizes the struggle and potential negative impact of the situation, while "presented with a challenge" can imply a more positive outlook, suggesting an opportunity for growth or problem-solving.
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
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested