slightly difficult

USAGE SUMMARY

'slightly difficult' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation that is not overly challenging, but still presents some difficulty. For example, "I found the math problem slightly difficult, but with a bit of practice, I was able to get the right answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No, I think maybe eccentric and slightly difficult.

The Guardian

The decision could make life slightly difficult for both her and the Mail's editor, Paul Dacre.

The Guardian

Thus I have always found the state slightly difficult to relate to.

Independent

It's slightly difficult to understand at first, but there are a few tricks that can help flatten the learning curve.

The New York Times - Tech

Bonafide is a third-floor club, slightly difficult to find from the street, but once inside, it's an intimate haven.

The Guardian - Music

LISTENING to the two Shurduts is like being with a smart lawyer and her slightly difficult but charming client.

The New York Times

A slightly difficult first exam and minor changes to the grading system may have contributed to the increase in the number of flags, he said.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Due to different vendors and the diversified philosophies behind different software tools, it may be slightly difficult to cope with the ripple effect across them.

Information Sciences

Does Alfie see his dad? 'He does - but he doesn't commute because Gary lives in America so it has been slightly difficult.

The Guardian

We did rush the opening, in part because of a slightly difficult situation with my former employer that I won't bore you with.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You are in a slightly difficult position because all of this jostling and flirting is happening at work and the maxim of "not mixing work and pleasure" exists for a reason.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "slightly difficult" with specific context to give the reader a clear understanding of the challenge involved. For example, "The instructions were slightly difficult to follow due to their technical language."

Common error

Avoid using "slightly difficult" when the situation warrants a stronger term. If the challenge is significant, use more descriptive language such as "moderately challenging" or "quite complex" to accurately reflect the degree of difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly difficult" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe the degree of difficulty associated with something, indicating that it is not easy, but also not overly challenging. Ludwig AI validates its frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly difficult" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe situations that present a moderate level of challenge. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase functions as an adjective phrase with a neutral tone suitable for various registers, including News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. It serves the purpose of conveying a balanced assessment, avoiding overstatement of the difficulty. When employing this phrase, consider the specific context to ensure it accurately reflects the degree of challenge involved; alternatives such as "somewhat challenging" or "a bit tricky" may offer more precise nuance depending on the situation. Overstating should always be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat challenging

Indicates a moderate degree of difficulty, similar to "slightly difficult" but may imply a bit more effort is needed.

a bit tricky

Emphasizes the need for careful handling or cleverness to overcome the difficulty.

a little complicated

Like "moderately complex", focuses on intricacy or elaboration.

moderately complex

Focuses on the intricacy rather than the difficulty, but still suggests something not overly simple.

somewhat problematic

Highlights that something could generate concerns.

not entirely straightforward

Highlights the presence of complications or deviations from the expected path.

presents some challenges

Indicates that there will be obstacles or hurdles to overcome.

relatively demanding

Suggests the task requires a certain level of effort and attention.

takes some effort

Emphasizes that something requires specific dedication.

not a walk in the park

An idiomatic expression suggesting more than minor difficulty.

FAQs

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

Use "slightly difficult" to describe something that presents a mild challenge or is not entirely easy. For instance, "The exam was "slightly difficult", but I managed to pass".

What can I say instead of "slightly difficult"?

You can use alternatives such as "somewhat challenging", "a bit tricky", or "moderately complex", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "slightly difficult"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey that something isn't completely easy but isn't overly hard either. It implies a mild degree of complexity or challenge.

What is the difference between "slightly difficult" and "very difficult"?

"Slightly difficult" indicates a mild challenge, while "very difficult" suggests a significant obstacle. If something is "slightly difficult", it requires some effort, but "very difficult" implies a much greater level of challenge.