still pose a difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "still pose a difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ongoing challenges or obstacles that remain despite efforts to address them. Example: "Although we have made significant progress, some issues still pose a difficulty in the project's completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

In all these circumstances, they could still pose a threat.

The Economist

Regulations still pose a major challenge.

TechCrunch

These samples still pose a challenge for their analysis.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

Expanding Heathrow would still pose an air-quality problem.

The Economist

Notwithstanding the obvious interest and likely improvement in standards, meta-analysis in diagnostic research still poses a number of difficulties to researchers.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Thus, difficulty in communication during patient education still poses a substantial barrier to insulin initiation in Malaysia.

BMC Family Practice

This latest legislation would pose a difficulty for a wide number of authors, directors and performers.

The Guardian

However, the main difficulties in rural areas, such as lack of proper handling, storage, transportation and processing facilities, still posed a problem for the rural producers.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

Their efficient synthesis still poses a major challenge.

AMB Express

Observing such signatures still poses a significant challenge.

Progress in Earth and Planetary Science

Malaria still poses a serious threat to human life.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "still pose a difficulty", ensure the context clearly establishes what actions have already been taken to address the issue. This highlights the persistence of the difficulty despite prior efforts.

Common error

Avoid using "still pose a difficulty" in very basic situations where simpler phrasing like "is still hard" would suffice. The phrase is more effective when the difficulty is complex or unexpected.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still pose a difficulty" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that something continues to present an obstacle or problem. It typically connects a subject (the thing posing the difficulty) with the action of presenting a challenge. Ludwig's analysis indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "still pose a difficulty" is grammatically sound and understandable, used to express that something continues to present a challenge. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, its infrequent usage suggests that simpler alternatives might often be preferred. The phrase is suitable for formal or neutral contexts where emphasizing the persistence of a problem is key. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when selecting this phrase over simpler options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

still present a challenge

Replaces "pose a difficulty" with "present a challenge", focusing on the challenging aspect.

continue to create problems

Uses "create problems" instead of "pose a difficulty", indicating the creation of issues.

remain problematic

Emphasizes that something remains a problem, simplifying the original phrase.

are still troublesome

Replaces "pose a difficulty" with "are still troublesome", highlighting the troublesome nature.

persist as an obstacle

Indicates that something continues to be an obstacle, changing the phrasing slightly.

continue to be a hurdle

Substitutes "difficulty" with "hurdle", suggesting a barrier to overcome.

still be a stumbling block

Uses "stumbling block" instead of "difficulty", implying something that causes one to stumble.

remain a significant issue

Focuses on the significance of the issue, using simpler language.

continue to be a concern

Highlights the concern aspect, replacing "difficulty" with a more general term.

still present complications

Uses "present complications" instead of "pose a difficulty", focusing on the complications.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "still pose a difficulty" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "continue to present a challenge" or "remain a significant impediment". These options often suit professional or academic writing better.

What's the difference between "still pose a difficulty" and "present a challenge"?

While similar, "still pose a difficulty" emphasizes the ongoing nature of the problem despite previous attempts to resolve it. "Present a challenge" simply indicates that something is difficult without necessarily implying prior efforts.

In what situations is it best to use "still pose a difficulty"?

This phrase is most effective when describing complex or persistent issues that have not been easily resolved. It's suitable for contexts where the history and continued presence of the difficulty are relevant.

Are there simpler alternatives to "still pose a difficulty"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use simpler phrases such as "is still hard", "remains a problem", or "is still challenging" for more straightforward communication.