Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
items of difficulty
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "items of difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to specific challenges or problems that need to be addressed or solved. Example: "In our meeting, we will discuss the items of difficulty that have arisen during the project."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
Likewise, the simulated and actual estimates of item difficulty for the anatomy items were generally between 1-5% with the exception of ten very easy items of difficulty -3 logits or less.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
For items related to "perceived barriers", we used the items of "difficulties in taking aminosalicylates" that we developed in a previous study [ 30].
Science
Using the one-parameter logistic model (1PLM), it is possible to estimate the probability that someone will answer the item (of difficulty, b) correctly.
Also, the person reliability of the support scale was.83 indicating that items' range of difficulty was able to discriminate the sample, yielding reliable distinctions among participants.
D. Function in sport and recreation (Sport_Rec) (five items); Degree of difficulty in: (1) squatting; (2) running; (3) jumping; (4) twisting/pivoting on injured knee; and (5) kneeling.
Conversely, item difficulty was inversely associated with false positive results, indicating that items of higher difficulty were less likely to be incorrectly flagged as exhibiting mode effects.
For the CAT algorithm to be able to select items tailored to test taker's ability, many items of various difficulty levels are needed.
The TOL has twelve items of increasing difficulty.
Science
First, ceiling effects needs to be reduced, possibly by including items of greater difficulty.
The WPPSI-III subtests include items of graduated difficulty, with more points awarded for harder items or faster completion.
The WISC-III subtests include items of graduated difficulty, with more points awarded for harder items or faster completion.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing challenges in a structured environment like a test or project, use "items of difficulty" to specifically refer to the elements causing problems. For general situations, consider alternatives like "challenges" or "issues".
Common error
Avoid using "items of difficulty" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler terms like "problems" or "challenges" instead.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "items of difficulty" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to identify specific elements or components that present challenges or problems. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English and its application in various contexts.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "items of difficulty" is a noun phrase used to denote specific challenges or problematic elements. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and suitable for written English, particularly in formal and scientific contexts. While alternatives like ""difficult items"" or ""challenging items"" may be suitable depending on the context, "items of difficulty" provides a precise way to identify and address particular issues. It is important to consider the formality of the setting when choosing this phrase, opting for simpler terms in casual communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
difficult items
Reverses the word order for conciseness.
challenging items
Substitutes "difficulty" with "challenging", highlighting the demanding nature.
problematic issues
Replaces "items" with "issues" and "difficulty" with "problematic", focusing on the troublesome aspect.
troublesome aspects
Shifts from specific "items" to general "aspects", emphasizing the problematic nature.
complex elements
Uses "complex" to indicate difficulty, focusing on intricacy rather than direct hardship.
complicated matters
Highlights the intricacy and potential confusion associated with the items.
demanding tasks
Focuses on tasks that require significant effort and skill.
arduous endeavors
Emphasizes the effort and labor involved, suggesting a more prolonged and taxing difficulty.
critical impediments
Highlights obstacles that are crucial and hinder progress.
tough nuts to crack
An idiomatic expression referring to problems that are hard to solve.
FAQs
How can I use "items of difficulty" in a sentence?
You can use "items of difficulty" to refer to specific challenges or problems. For example, "The questionnaire included several "items of difficulty" designed to assess problem-solving skills".
What are some alternatives to "items of difficulty"?
Alternatives include "difficult items", "challenging items", or "problematic issues" depending on the specific context.
Is "items of difficulty" a formal phrase?
Yes, "items of difficulty" leans toward formal usage, often found in academic, scientific, or technical writing. For less formal contexts, consider simpler alternatives.
What's the difference between "items of difficulty" and "challenges"?
"Items of difficulty" typically refers to specific, identifiable problems or elements causing difficulty, whereas "challenges" is a broader term encompassing a wider range of difficult situations or tasks. Use "items of difficulty" for concrete issues and "challenges" for more abstract situations.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested