having trouble learning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having trouble learning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing difficulties or challenges someone is facing in the process of acquiring knowledge or skills. Example: "Many students are having trouble learning the new material due to the fast pace of the course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"If a child is having trouble breathing, then he most certainly is having trouble learning.

The New York Times

After America is returned to Nyack, he is having trouble learning to read.

The New York Times - Books

At P.S. 164, all students having trouble learning get a high level of personalized instruction, starting in first grade.

The New York Times

They are both having trouble learning English, which is essential for Planinic because he shouts plays as a point guard.

The New York Times - Sports

If you're the parent of a child who's having trouble learning or behaving in school, you quickly find yourself confronted with a series of difficult choices.

The New York Times

He was having trouble learning his lines, so together with his beautiful secretary we drilled and repeated until he felt secure.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

As the social scientist Chris Argyris (one of the fathers of organizational-learning theory) put it, smart people have trouble learning because it involves so much floundering and failure.

Harvard Business Review

But he still had trouble learning.

The New York Times

"I had trouble learning the lines," she says.

The New Yorker

Many users have trouble learning and remembering information presented on the screen.

Computers in Human Behavior

Many computer users have trouble learning and remembering information presented on a computer screen.

Computers in Human Behavior

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "having trouble learning", specify the subject or skill the person is struggling with to provide more context. For example, "having trouble learning algebra" is more informative than just "having trouble learning".

Common error

Avoid attributing "having trouble learning" to a single, simplistic cause. Learning difficulties are often multifaceted, involving cognitive, environmental, and emotional factors. Acknowledge the complexity of the issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having trouble learning" functions as a general descriptor of difficulties encountered in the process of acquiring new knowledge or skills. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and commonly used. It often serves as an introductory statement before specifying the specific area of difficulty or the underlying cause.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "having trouble learning" is a common and grammatically sound way to express difficulty in acquiring new knowledge or skills. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic discussions. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to provide specific context regarding the subject or skill causing difficulty. Remember to avoid oversimplifying the causes of learning difficulties and to offer empathetic support when discussing this issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experiencing difficulty learning

This alternative uses more formal language, replacing "trouble" with "difficulty".

struggling to learn

This alternative emphasizes the effort and challenge involved in learning.

finding it hard to learn

This alternative uses a simpler structure and vocabulary to express the same idea.

having a hard time learning

This alternative is a more colloquial way of saying "having trouble learning".

facing challenges in learning

This alternative highlights the obstacles encountered during the learning process.

encountering obstacles in learning

Similar to "facing challenges", this emphasizes the barriers to learning.

grappling with learning

This alternative suggests a more intense struggle with the learning process.

not grasping the concepts

This focuses on the lack of understanding rather than the process of learning itself.

unable to learn easily

This alternative directly states the inability to learn with ease.

deficient in learning skills

This alternative uses formal language, highlighting a lack in specific learning abilities.

FAQs

What are some common reasons for "having trouble learning"?

Reasons can range from learning disabilities like dyslexia, to environmental factors such as a disruptive classroom, or even emotional issues like anxiety. A comprehensive assessment is usually needed to determine the root cause.

What can I say instead of "having trouble learning" to sound more empathetic?

You could use phrases like "struggling to learn" or "finding it hard to learn" to convey understanding and support.

How can I help someone who is "having trouble learning"?

Offer support, encourage them to seek help from teachers or tutors, and suggest exploring different learning strategies. Creating a positive and encouraging environment is crucial.

Is "having trouble learning" a formal or informal expression?

It's generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both informal and semi-formal contexts. For highly formal situations, consider using "experiencing difficulty learning".