prove difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

"prove difficult" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is going to be difficult to do, accomplish, or achieve. For example: "The task will likely prove difficult."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That might prove difficult.

The Guardian - Money

That may prove difficult.

The New York Times

November could well prove difficult.

The Economist

This did not prove difficult.

The New Yorker

"Well that might prove difficult".

The New York Times

That could prove difficult in his case.

The New York Times

But collecting any money will prove difficult.

The New York Times

But that could prove difficult.

The New York Times

This, however, could prove difficult.

The Guardian

Winning the public's approval could prove difficult.

The New York Times

Designing around the tree would prove difficult.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "prove difficult" to signal potential challenges or complexities in advance, setting expectations appropriately.

Common error

While "prove difficult" is a useful phrase, avoid using it repetitively within a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "challenging", "problematic", or describing the specific nature of the difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prove difficult" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used to indicate that something is likely to encounter challenges or complexities. It often predicts a future assessment of difficulty based on current circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prove difficult" is a versatile phrase used to anticipate challenges or complexities across various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and scientific writing. While the phrase is generally acceptable, avoid overuse and consider using synonyms to add variety to your writing. It is typically used in neutral register and is appropriate to describe the state or condition of a subject by setting expectations appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be challenging

Emphasizes the stimulating and engaging aspect of the difficulty, focusing on the positive side of facing a demanding situation.

be problematic

Focuses on the issues and potential negative consequences associated with the difficulty.

be troublesome

Highlights the potential for causing problems or annoyance, focusing on the inconvenience aspect.

pose a challenge

Shifts the focus to the act of presenting a difficulty, rather than the inherent difficulty itself.

be complex

Emphasizes the intricate and multifaceted nature of the situation, suggesting a challenge in understanding rather than execution.

present complications

Emphasizes the introduction of factors that make a situation more complex and harder to manage.

encounter obstacles

Highlights the presence of barriers and impediments that hinder progress.

not be easy

Offers a simple and direct way to convey that something will require effort and may not be straightforward.

be an uphill battle

Suggests a prolonged and arduous struggle against significant resistance.

face hurdles

Implies overcoming specific obstacles that require effort and skill.

FAQs

How can I use "prove difficult" in a sentence?

You can use "prove difficult" to describe a task, situation, or process that is likely to encounter challenges. For example: "Implementing the new policy may "prove difficult" due to logistical constraints."

What can I say instead of "prove difficult"?

Alternatives to "prove difficult" include "be challenging", "be troublesome", or "be problematic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "proves difficult" instead of "prove difficult"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "proves difficult" when the subject is singular (e.g., "The task proves difficult"). Use "prove difficult" with plural subjects or auxiliary verbs (e.g., "The tasks prove difficult" or "It may prove difficult").

What's the difference between "prove difficult" and "is difficult"?

"Prove difficult" suggests a future assessment or realization of difficulty, implying that the difficulty will become apparent over time. "Is difficult" states a present or inherent difficulty. For instance, "The climb will "prove difficult"" suggests the difficulty will be experienced during the climb, while "The climb is difficult" states its inherent nature.