finding it hard

USAGE SUMMARY

"finding it hard" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a way to describe an experience of great difficulty or effort. For example, "I'm finding it hard to come up with ideas for my research project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm finding it hard to find anyone obfuscating about this".

The New York Times

But he's finding it hard to find political backing.

The Guardian

Aged 56, he was finding it hard to find work.

The Guardian - Business

Yet the price has shot up and wholesale buyers are finding it hard to find suppliers.

The Economist

"Young love is finding it hard to find visibility.

BBC

The foundation is finding it hard to raise its €3m ($4m) annual budget.

The Economist

You're finding it hard to walk".

The New Yorker

I'm finding it hard to breathe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's finding it hard to balance everything.

The New York Times

He's finding it hard to cope.

The Guardian - Opinion

He is finding it hard work.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a temporary situation, "finding it hard" is appropriate. For more permanent or inherent challenges, consider using "having a hard time" or "struggling".

Common error

While acceptable in many situations, overuse of "finding it hard" in formal writing can sound repetitive or informal. Use synonyms such as "encountering difficulties", "experiencing challenges", or "struggling with" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "finding it hard" functions as a verbal phrase expressing the experience of difficulty or challenge. As Ludwig AI points out, it is generally considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "finding it hard" is a common and generally acceptable way to express difficulty or challenge, suitable for many contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While it is suitable for many situations, formal writing may benefit from using synonyms such as "experiencing difficulties" or "struggling with". Authoritative sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist frequently employ this phrase. When deciding whether to use "finding it hard", consider the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having difficulty

This is a direct synonym that expresses the same concept in a slightly more formal tone.

not finding it easy

This alternative uses a double negative to convey the same meaning, focusing on the lack of ease.

struggling with

This phrase emphasizes the ongoing effort and resistance involved in dealing with a difficult situation.

experiencing difficulty

This alternative uses more formal language to describe the same concept of facing challenges.

having a tough time

This alternative is more informal and focuses on the unpleasantness of the experience.

grappling with

This phrase suggests a more active and intense struggle with a problem.

facing challenges

This phrase highlights the obstacles that need to be overcome.

encountering obstacles

Similar to "facing challenges", this option emphasizes the hurdles in the way.

contending with

This alternative emphasizes the act of competing or fighting against a difficulty.

undergoing hardship

This option focuses on the suffering and adversity experienced during a difficult period.

FAQs

How can I use "finding it hard" in a sentence?

You can use "finding it hard" to describe a situation where someone is experiencing difficulty. For example: "I'm "finding it hard" to concentrate on my work today", or "They are "finding it hard" to make ends meet".

What can I say instead of "finding it hard"?

Alternatives to "finding it hard" include "having difficulty", "struggling with", or "experiencing challenges", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "find it hard" instead of "finding it hard"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "finding it hard" typically describes a current or ongoing situation, while "find it hard" is more general. For instance, "I "find it hard" to wake up early" expresses a general difficulty, whereas "I'm "finding it hard" to wake up early these days" indicates a difficulty specific to the present time.

What's the difference between "finding it hard" and "finding it difficult"?

"Finding it hard" and "finding it difficult" are largely interchangeable. "Hard" is slightly more informal, while "difficult" is more formal, but they both convey the same meaning of experiencing trouble or challenge.