least difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a task or situation that is expected to be the easiest or most straightforward option available. Example: "I chose the method that would allow me to complete the project with the least difficulty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Even if you didn't know that it's the work of a 12 year-old, you'd be impressed by its pixelly retro look and challenging (to say the least) difficulty curve".

The Guardian - Tech

It was clear, he suggested, that trouble, or at least difficulty, loomed, as each side would be forced to put in writing its perception of what had been agreed on.

The New Yorker

Even if you didn't know that it's the work of a 12 year-old named Sam – which you do now – you'd be impressed by its pixelly retro look and challenging (to say the least) difficulty curve.

The Guardian - Tech

If imported tools such as the machete, ax, rifle, and matches became unavailable to the Lacandón through some catastrophe, they, of all Mesoamerican peoples, would have perhaps the least difficulty in adjusting to the challenge of their ecological situation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The total overall score can be between 12 (indicating least difficulty) to a maximum score of 60 (indicating severe difficulty in knee function).

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

In cases of small busyness probability, (light contention) is a suitable and tight approximation for ; thus, a linear equation with least difficulty in computations is obtained.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Patients' subjective outcome measures included the Oxford shoulder score as originally described (Dawson et al. 1996), i.e. ranging from 12 (least difficulties) to 60 (most difficulties); subjective shoulder value (on a 0 100% scale) (Gilbart and Gerber 2007); and pain score at rest and during activity on a numeric scale from 0 to 10 (where 0 means no pain and 10 means excruciating pain).

Acta Orthopaedica

Variables were dichotomized to "at least some difficulty" versus no difficulty.

BMC Geriatrics

A. Individuals answering at least 'some difficulty' on at least one domain B. Individuals answering at least 'some difficulty' on at least two domains C. Individuals answering at least 'some difficulty' on at least three domains D. Individuals answering at least 'a lot of difficulty' on at least one domain.

BMJ Open

Of the 386 participants who tried quitting in the previous 12 months, 80.6% (n=311) reported experiencing at least one difficulty or withdrawal symptom during their quit attempts; 67.1% (n=259) reported having multiple difficulties.

BMJ Open

At least some difficulty rising from an armless straight chair was reported by 20.5%; 14.9% reported at least some difficulty getting in or out of bed, and 8.2% reported at least some difficulty walking between rooms on the same level.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing options or methods, use "least difficulty" to highlight the one that requires the minimum amount of effort or presents the fewest obstacles. This helps guide the audience towards the most efficient choice.

Common error

Avoid using "least difficulty" when a more specific term could provide a clearer understanding. For example, instead of saying "choose the option with the least difficulty", specify what makes it easier, such as "choose the option that requires the fewest steps".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least difficulty" functions primarily as a noun phrase that modifies another noun or verb, indicating the minimum level of challenge or impediment associated with an action or situation. Ludwig confirms that it's a proper and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "least difficulty" is a grammatically sound phrase that identifies the option or method that minimizes obstacles and effort. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While "least difficulty" isn't exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts like news, science, encyclopedias, and wikis, suggesting it maintains a relatively neutral tone. When writing, you can use "least difficulty" to guide readers towards the most straightforward approach. Remember to be specific about what makes something less difficult for improved clarity. If you need alternatives, consider phrases like "minimal difficulty" or "minimum effort".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minimal difficulty

Focuses on the small amount of difficulty encountered.

minimum effort

Emphasizes the reduced amount of exertion required.

easiest path

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the approach.

simplest approach

Stresses the uncomplicated nature of the method.

most straightforward

Underlines the direct and uncomplicated nature of the process.

greatest ease

Highlights the lack of struggle involved.

with no trouble

Indicates an absence of problems or obstacles.

without complications

Points out the absence of complex elements.

most convenient

Focuses on the comfort and suitability of the option.

smooth sailing

Emphasizes the effortless and trouble-free nature of the activity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "least difficulty" to sound more professional?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "minimal effort", "optimal efficiency", or "simplified approach". These alternatives offer a similar meaning while maintaining a professional register.

What are some common situations where I might use the phrase "least difficulty"?

You might use "least difficulty" when comparing different methods for completing a task, evaluating the usability of a product, or describing the easiest way to achieve a goal.

Is "least difficulty" interchangeable with "easiest"?

While similar, "least difficulty" emphasizes the reduction of obstacles, whereas "easiest" simply indicates the simplest option. Depending on the context, they can often be used interchangeably.

What's the difference between "least difficulty" and "minimum effort"?

"Least difficulty" focuses on reducing obstacles, while "minimum effort" emphasizes the reduced physical or mental exertion required. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight ease of execution or the lack of struggle.