it is surely difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is surely difficult" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing certainty about the difficulty of a task or situation. Example: "While many people attempt to learn a new language, it is surely difficult for those who have never been exposed to it before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But for all we (and Uefa) might suspect it was an Albanian flying it, without proof it is surely difficult to censure them for it.

The Guardian - Sport

It is surely difficult to make much of a hero of him at this time: he dismayed his Democratic colleagues by abstaining from the Senate vote to condemn Joseph McCarthy, whom he "rather respected".

The New York Times - Books

It is surely difficult for self-incompatible species to reproduce on islands compared with self-compatible species, as mentioned by Baker (1955).

AoB PLANTS

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Opening a theater anywhere, any time is surely difficult, but to embark on the mission in a depressed area when the economy is bad is especially risky.

The New York Times

Existing smokers only", which, they tell me, is intended to deter children and non-smokers – something that is surely difficult to achieve when there is currently no age restriction on the purchase of these products.

The Guardian

In addition, the numerical results give a proof again that exciting SPP enhanced LSPR signal at near-field for the terahertz wavelength is surely difficult than that of the visible case.

Optik - International Journal for Light and Electron Optics

Getting into a medical college is surely difficult.

WikiHow

Being unwillingly unmasked by the Sun's Gordon Smart was surely difficult enough for the actual Will Bevan.

The Guardian - Music

It is surely too little.

The Economist

It is, surely, a failure.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is, surely, a change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is surely difficult" to convey a strong sense of certainty about the challenges involved in a situation. This phrase is appropriate when you want to emphasize the degree of difficulty without any room for doubt.

Common error

Avoid using "it is surely difficult" when the difficulty is already apparent from the context. Overusing this phrase in obvious situations can make your writing sound redundant or condescending.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is surely difficult" functions as an evaluative expression, conveying a high degree of certainty about the level of difficulty associated with a particular task or situation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is surely difficult" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to emphasize the challenging nature of a task or situation. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and wiki articles. While appropriate for both formal and informal writing, it's important to avoid redundancy by not using it when the difficulty is already obvious. Remember, alternatives like "it is undoubtedly challenging" or "it is certainly not easy" can offer slight variations in tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is undoubtedly challenging

Emphasizes the lack of doubt surrounding the challenge involved.

it is certainly not easy

Highlights the absence of ease in the situation.

it is definitely a struggle

Focuses on the effort and hardship required.

it's a tough ask

Uses a more informal tone to express the difficulty.

it's bound to be hard

Suggests the difficulty is inevitable.

it is assuredly complicated

Highlights the complex nature of the subject.

it is predictably arduous

Indicates the difficulty was expected.

it is most assuredly trying

Focuses on the aspect of testing one's patience or resilience.

it is patently problematic

Emphasizes how obvious the difficulties are.

it's a steep climb

Metaphorically suggests a significant challenge or obstacle.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is surely difficult" to express a high degree of certainty about the difficulty of a task. For instance, "While many people attempt to learn a new language, "it is surely difficult" for those who have never been exposed to it before."

What phrases are similar to "it is surely difficult"?

Alternatives include "it is undoubtedly challenging", "it is certainly not easy", or "it is definitely a struggle", each varying slightly in emphasis.

Is "it is surely difficult" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "it is surely difficult" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "it is undoubtedly challenging" may be preferred in academic or professional settings.

Can "it is surely difficult" be used to express a subjective opinion?

While "it is surely difficult" can express a subjective assessment, it implies a strong degree of certainty. Ensure that the difficulty is widely acknowledged or supported by evidence to avoid undermining your credibility.