it is hard to describe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is hard to describe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing difficulty in articulating a particular feeling, experience, or concept. Example: "The beauty of the sunset was so profound that it is hard to describe in words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is hard to describe to you".

Independent

It is hard to describe.

The Guardian - Sport

Unfortunately, it is hard to describe.

The New York Times - Sports

It is hard to describe but common to many games.

Cornell University

It is hard to describe the excitement of these dances.

The New Yorker

It is hard to describe how difficult things became.

The Guardian - Sport

It is hard to describe the depth of her dopiness.

The New York Times

"It is hard to describe somebody prepared to do that.

The Guardian

"It is hard to describe the stench," Mr. Browne said.

The New York Times

It is hard to describe the feeling of sheer unconfined joy when your team wins.

The New York Times

It is hard to describe what a huge impact their loss has had on my life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If possible, indicate why something is difficult to describe. Is it due to complexity, emotional intensity, or a lack of appropriate vocabulary? Providing the reason enhances understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "it is hard to describe" as a substitute for actual description. If you frequently find yourself using this phrase, consider expanding your vocabulary or exploring alternative ways to convey complex ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is hard to describe" functions as a declarative statement expressing the speaker's difficulty in articulating something. It serves as an introductory remark, often followed by an attempt to provide some explanation or context, despite the acknowledged challenge. Ludwig AI confirms this correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is hard to describe" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to convey the difficulty of articulating something complex or ineffable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is frequently used in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When employing this phrase, aim to provide additional context or reasons for the difficulty in describing the subject, and avoid overusing it as a substitute for detailed explanation. Alternatives like "it is difficult to articulate" or "it is challenging to put into words" can also be considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's difficult to articulate

Emphasizes the challenge in expressing something clearly.

it's challenging to put into words

Highlights the struggle to find the right vocabulary.

it's tough to convey

Focuses on the difficulty of communicating an idea effectively.

it defies description

Indicates that something is beyond the ability to be described.

words can't fully capture

Suggests that language is inadequate to express the full meaning.

it's indescribable

Implies that something is impossible to describe.

it's beyond words

Similar to 'indescribable', emphasizing the limits of language.

it's not easily explained

Focuses on the complexity that hinders explanation.

it's a feeling that's hard to express

Specifically refers to the difficulty of expressing a feeling.

articulating it is a real challenge

Highlights articulation as the primary difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "it is hard to describe" in a sentence?

You can use "it is hard to describe" when you want to express the difficulty of articulating something. For example, "It is hard to describe the feeling of winning the championship".

What can I say instead of "it is hard to describe"?

You can use alternatives like "it is difficult to articulate", "it is challenging to put into words", or "it is tough to convey" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it is hard to describe"?

Yes, "it is hard to describe" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both written and spoken English.

When is it appropriate to use "it is hard to describe"?

Use "it is hard to describe" when you genuinely struggle to find the right words to express something, whether it's a feeling, experience, or concept. Ensure you still attempt to provide some level of description or explanation.