may cause difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

"may cause difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something might be difficult, challenging, or troublesome. For example, "Finding a solution to this problem may cause difficulty."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Such are the arguments (and others of the kind) which may cause difficulty on this point.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Liquids may move by gravity in the upright position but may cause difficulty in the recumbent position.

Nature

The increase in unsupported roof span above the shearer may cause difficulty in controlling the roof and consequently increases dilution of the run of mine (ROM) coal.

International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences

However, honoring a patient's desire to die may cause difficulty for emergency-care professionals who are trained to err on the side of life, even if they know a patient wishes not to be resuscitated.

The New York Times

Complications with jewelry left in place may cause difficulty with placement of treatment devices and can interfere with magnetic resonance imaging, creating artifact, distortion, or even injuring the patient.

Journal of Radiology Nursing

Migration of a biliary stent into the contralateral duodenal wall may cause difficulty in gaining access to the biliary tract, as will the placement of a duodenal stent across the ampulla.

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

In what may cause difficulties for the government in next May's local elections, the Local Government Association said it had been handed the worst settlement in decades, with local authorities told to keep council tax settlements well below 5%, even thought they had been given only a 1% real terms rise and a requirement to deliver cashable savings of 3%.

The Guardian

It may cause difficulties for maintaining the unity of the socialist countries.

The New York Times

The assumption that the vast majority of claimants can initiate and manage their claims online seems unrealistic and may cause difficulties for many claimants.

The Guardian

Coyle has been in discussions with his chairman Barry Kilby about strengthening his squad, though the £8.9million loss the club made in their promotion season may cause difficulties.

The Guardian - Sport

A flow rate below 80% of the normal flow may cause difficulties in the plant operation because of the increase in the coolant temperature of the channel.

Nuclear Engineering and Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may cause difficulty", consider specifying the type of difficulty to provide clarity and context for your audience. For example, instead of saying "This may cause difficulty", specify "This may cause difficulty in securing funding".

Common error

Avoid using "may cause difficulty" as a vague warning without providing specific details or examples. Always clarify what kind of difficulty is anticipated and why. For instance, rather than simply stating "The new system may cause difficulty", explain that "The new system may cause difficulty for users unfamiliar with the interface, requiring additional training."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may cause difficulty" functions as a causal connector, linking a potential cause with a possible negative outcome. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It introduces the possibility of challenges or problems arising from a specific situation or action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may cause difficulty" serves as a versatile causal connector, signaling the potential for challenges across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related sources, it maintains a neutral register, suitable for professional communication. While widely used, avoid vagueness by specifying the type of difficulty and its potential impact. Consider alternatives like "could present challenges" or "might create complications" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could present challenges

Emphasizes the challenging aspect of a situation, softening the direct implication of difficulty.

might create complications

Focuses on the potential for creating complex or problematic situations.

can lead to problems

Highlights the possibility of adverse outcomes or issues arising.

may result in setbacks

Specifically points to potential delays or hindrances in progress.

might pose an obstacle

Suggests something could create a barrier or impediment.

could generate issues

Similar to 'lead to problems' but emphasizes the act of generating or creating the issues.

can trigger concerns

Focuses on the potential to initiate worries or anxieties.

may engender hardship

Highlights the possibility of creating difficult living conditions or suffering.

might spawn adversity

Indicates the potential to create unfavorable or challenging circumstances.

could precipitate a crisis

Suggests a potential for accelerating or bringing about a critical situation.

FAQs

How can I use "may cause difficulty" in a sentence?

Use "may cause difficulty" to introduce a potential problem or challenge. For example, "The lack of resources "may cause difficulty" in completing the project on time".

What are some alternatives to "may cause difficulty"?

You can use alternatives such as "could present challenges", "might create complications", or "can lead to problems" depending on the specific context.

Is "may cause difficulty" too informal for academic writing?

No, "may cause difficulty" is suitable for academic writing. While not overly formal, it is a clear and professional way to indicate potential challenges. More formal alternatives could include "may present an obstacle" or "may engender hardship".

When should I use "may cause difficulty" instead of "will cause difficulty"?

Use "may cause difficulty" when the outcome is uncertain or conditional. Use "will cause difficulty" when the outcome is highly probable or certain. The choice depends on the level of certainty you want to convey.