no matter how difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

"no matter how difficult" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea that something will happen regardless of the difficulty. For example: "I will get it done no matter how difficult it is."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

MB Every puzzle, no matter how difficult, promises a solution.

The Guardian - Sport

No matter how difficult it may be to get here.

The New York Times - Sports

No matter how difficult, we must stand back up.

The Guardian - Sport

"We have a criteria, no matter how difficult it is.

The New York Times - Sports

No matter how difficult it is to forget the past.

The Guardian - Sport

"No matter how difficult their marriage was, they would stick it out.

The New York Times

Beauty is boring – but ugliness, no matter how difficult to define, always fascinates.

The Guardian - Opinion

You just keep on, no matter how difficult something is, you can work for it".

The Guardian - Sport

In 14 years, I had never excluded anyone, no matter how difficult they were.

The Guardian

That is why at every point, no matter how difficult, we remain strong partners in Europe.

The Guardian

You must cherish every moment no matter how difficult or monotonous it might seem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "no matter how difficult" to convey a sense of unwavering commitment, ensuring the subsequent action remains consistent with the initial intention, for example, "No matter how difficult the task, remain focused on the goal."

Common error

Avoid using "no matter how difficult" when describing a situation where difficulty is the only factor influencing the outcome. Ensure other factors (e.g., time, resources) are not overriding the commitment. For example, it's incorrect to say "No matter how difficult, I will finish this in five minutes" if time is the primary constraint.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no matter how difficult" functions as an adverbial clause of concession, modifying a main clause by indicating that the difficulty of something does not prevent the action or situation described in the main clause. Ludwig shows many examples where it introduces a situation that is overcome or persisted through.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

23%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Los Angeles Times

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "no matter how difficult" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey a sense of unwavering commitment despite challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, especially those emphasizing determination. While versatile, consider more formal synonyms in academic writing. Usage patterns show it frequently appears in news and media, as well as on wiki platforms, reflecting its broad appeal. Remember that the phrase is neutral, but not incorrect, also in more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regardless of the difficulty

Emphasizes the act of disregarding the difficulty, focusing on the action taken despite it.

irrespective of how challenging

Highlights the lack of importance given to the level of challenge involved.

despite the level of difficulty

Directly contrasts the action with the existing difficulty, highlighting resilience.

however challenging it may be

Similar in meaning, but places more emphasis on the potential challenge.

even if it's very hard

A more informal way of expressing the same sentiment, suitable for less formal contexts.

no matter the hardship involved

Substitutes 'difficulty' with 'hardship', emphasizing the potential suffering or adversity.

in spite of any challenges

Emphasizes the proactive overcoming of challenges, carrying a slightly more positive tone.

regardless of the obstacles faced

Focuses on overcoming obstacles, rather than just acknowledging the difficulty.

even at the risk of great effort

Highlights that the action will be undertaken also if it implies a great amount of effort.

come what may

An idiomatic expression, shorter and more impactful, suggesting determination in the face of any eventuality.

FAQs

How can I use "no matter how difficult" in a sentence?

You can use "no matter how difficult" to emphasize commitment to an action, regardless of the challenges. For example: "No matter how difficult the task, I will complete it."

What are some alternatives to "no matter how difficult"?

Alternatives include phrases like "regardless of the difficulty", "irrespective of how challenging", or "despite the level of difficulty", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "no matter how difficult" and "even if it's difficult"?

"No matter how difficult" expresses a stronger sense of determination than "even if it's difficult". The former implies that the action will be taken regardless of the difficulty, while the latter simply acknowledges the difficulty as a possibility.

Can "no matter how difficult" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "no matter how difficult" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. However, in formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "regardless of the difficulty" for a more sophisticated tone.