it can be difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

"it can be difficult" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it in any sentence when you want to express a negative sentiment about the challenge of something. For example: "Learning a new language can be difficult, but it is well worth the effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Sometimes it can be difficult.

The New York Times

It can be difficult to relax.

Independent

L.N.: Well, it can be difficult.

The New Yorker

In fact, it can be difficult.

The New York Times

"It can be difficult," Votto said.

The New York Times - Sports

Also it can be difficult to dry.

Princeton University

"It can be difficult," Mr. Bryggman said.

The New York Times

"It can be difficult to commercialize.

The Guardian

— it can be difficult to criticize.

The Washington Post

It sounds simple, but actually doing it can be difficult.

Harvard University

It can be difficult to write documentation for graphical programs.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it can be difficult", provide specific context to clarify the nature of the difficulty. This helps the reader understand the specific challenges involved rather than leaving the statement vague.

Common error

Avoid using "it can be difficult" as a standalone statement without providing specific details. Always clarify what 'it' refers to and why it presents a challenge. Otherwise, the phrase becomes a filler and lacks informative value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be difficult" functions as an impersonal comment on the degree of ease associated with an action or situation. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and suitable for expressing challenges, implying a need for effort or specific strategies. Examples show its usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

23%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it can be difficult" is a versatile phrase used to express that a task or situation presents challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. It is prevalent in news, academic, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to specify what 'it' refers to and the nature of the difficulty. Alternatives include "it may be challenging" or "it could be tough", offering subtle variations in emphasis. Always aim for clarity to maximize the phrase's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it may be challenging

Replaces 'difficult' with 'challenging', emphasizing the demanding nature of something.

it might prove hard

Substitutes 'can be' with 'might prove', indicating a possibility of hardship.

it could be tough

Uses 'tough' instead of 'difficult', suggesting a more resilient approach is needed.

it is sometimes problematic

Replaces 'difficult' with 'problematic', highlighting the potential for issues or complications.

it's not always easy

Expresses the idea by stating the opposite of 'easy', suggesting a degree of effort is needed.

it presents certain obstacles

Focuses on the obstacles involved, rather than directly stating the difficulty.

it requires considerable effort

Shifts the focus to the amount of effort needed, implying that it is not simple.

it involves some hurdles

Highlights the presence of hurdles or challenges that need to be overcome.

it poses some complexities

Emphasizes the intricate or complicated nature of something, suggesting it is not straightforward.

it is not without its challenges

A more formal way of acknowledging the difficulties involved.

FAQs

How can I use "it can be difficult" in a sentence?

Use "it can be difficult" to express that something presents challenges or requires effort. For example, "Learning a new language "it can be difficult", but rewarding."

What are some alternatives to "it can be difficult"?

You can use alternatives like "it may be challenging", "it might prove hard", or "it could be tough" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it can be difficult" in writing?

Use "it can be difficult" when you want to acknowledge that a task, situation, or concept involves challenges, obstacles, or requires significant effort. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "it can be difficult" and "it is challenging"?

While both phrases express a similar idea, "it can be difficult" suggests a potential for difficulty, whereas "it is challenging" directly states that something is demanding. The nuance lies in the degree of certainty and directness.