it is quite difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is quite difficult" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a task or situation that is challenging. For example: "The final exam was quite difficult; I studied for hours before the test."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is quite difficult to judge.

Independent

It is quite difficult to adjust.

The Guardian

"It is quite difficult to take on board.

The Guardian - Film

It is quite difficult to put together a multibillion-dollar financing package for a bidding war.

The New York Times

"Balance is important, but it is quite difficult to have too much protein.

Independent

"It is quite difficult because they have to reimburse the local authority," says chair Judy Downey.

Independent

"It is quite difficult to work out the social benefit of that," he said.

The New York Times

So, it is quite difficult to be Jewish, on the sidelines of this international crisis.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It sounds like nothing," he said, "but it is quite difficult to do properly".

The New York Times

I've got the bits, the hang, the tyre… It is quite difficult".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It is quite difficult," he admits, as I sit there trying to make my brain work.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is quite difficult", ensure the context clearly indicates what specifically is challenging and why. Providing details enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is quite difficult" as a vague statement. Instead of saying "Understanding quantum physics is quite difficult", specify what aspects are challenging: "Grasping the concept of quantum entanglement is quite difficult due to its counter-intuitive nature."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is quite difficult" functions as a subjective assessment of the degree of challenge or complexity involved in a task, situation, or concept. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable. The examples show it is used to express a non-trivial level of difficulty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

58%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is quite difficult" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something presents a notable challenge. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, particularly in science and news media, indicating its versatility and acceptance. While it is suitable for formal and professional settings, writers should ensure they specify what makes a particular task or situation challenging to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "it is rather challenging" or "it presents significant challenges" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Ultimately, "it is quite difficult" serves as a reliable way to acknowledge and convey the presence of non-trivial difficulties.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is rather challenging

Replaces "quite difficult" with "rather challenging", indicating a similar level of difficulty but with a different tone.

it presents significant challenges

Uses a more formal and emphatic structure to highlight the presence of notable difficulties.

it is somewhat problematic

Substitutes "difficult" with "problematic", shifting the focus slightly towards the issues caused by the difficulty.

it requires considerable effort

Focuses on the substantial amount of work needed to overcome the difficulty.

it is no easy task

Emphasizes the effort required, suggesting that the task is demanding.

it is not a simple matter

Highlights the complexity of the situation, indicating it involves more than initially meets the eye.

it is a tough proposition

Describes the situation as a difficult undertaking or challenge.

it is demanding

Simplifies the expression to a single adjective, emphasizing the high requirements of the task.

it's an uphill battle

Uses a metaphor to convey the sense of struggling against resistance or difficulty.

it poses a hurdle

Emphasizes a barrier or obstacle that needs to be overcome.

FAQs

How can I use "it is quite difficult" in a sentence?

You can use "it is quite difficult" to express that a task, concept, or situation presents significant challenges. For example, "It is quite difficult to master a new language in adulthood".

What are some alternatives to saying "it is quite difficult"?

Alternatives include "it is rather challenging", "it presents significant challenges", or "it is no easy task", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it is quite difficult" or "it is very difficult"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "it is quite difficult" might sound slightly more nuanced and less intense than "it is very difficult". The choice depends on the desired emphasis.

When should I avoid using the phrase "it is quite difficult"?

Avoid using "it is quite difficult" when describing something trivially easy or straightforward. It is best suited for situations that genuinely pose a notable challenge or complexity.