surmount difficulties

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "surmount difficulties" is correct and it can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to overcoming or facing an issue with determination. For example: "Despite the many difficulties he faced, John was determined to surmount them and reach his goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Finally, Oasis500, as the accelerator programme is called, organises a "demo day", during which the teams pitch their start-ups to investors.Pillars of wisdomThe pillars in Oasis500's open-plan offices are covered with famous quotes in Arabic ("I will surmount difficulties or die trying", says one).

The Economist

ANN belongs to a new kind of artificial intelligence technique, which can surmount difficulties in data analysis and model development, so it is suitable for non-linear and unstructured information processing in materials research.

Materials & Design

With Howard, I get the feeling that I can surmount difficulties even when I don't know how.

Huffington Post

From Lincoln's obsession with books and newspapers to Elvis Presley's fascination with movies and soundtracks, Wolff ties these and other personalities (W.E.B. DuBois, George Washington, Abigail Adams, Helen Keller, JFK, and more) together with common historical threads, discerning how each was able to surmount difficulties and make his or her mark.

Huffington Post

However, recent pieces of evidence suggest the existence of a naïve state of pluripotency and may surmount difficulties met with FGF-dependent human ES cell and iPS cells.

Cell Regeneration

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

We are grateful to BCBSM Project Officer Dr. Nora Maloy for her patience as we surmounted difficulties acquiring and then processing data to be used for this study.

BMC Health Services Research

In the past the sides have found ways to surmount such difficulties.

The New York Times

But Mr. Rogers said that he believes the market overreacted and that he expects the company to surmount its difficulties.

The New York Times

"But without your sustaining hands, I am sure that neither I, nor any other man, can hope to surmount these difficulties".

The New York Times

Students who normally would have struggled with calculus in isolation, perhaps dropping math altogether, surmount their difficulties with peer support, and often go on to excel.

The New York Times - Books

Hearing one of Bach's sonatas or partitas for unaccompanied violin in a recital is usually a treat, if the violinist has the technique and imagination to surmount its difficulties and give it a richly characterized performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "surmount difficulties" to convey a sense of triumph and perseverance over obstacles. It is particularly effective when describing achievements that required significant effort and determination.

Common error

Avoid using "surmount difficulties" when simpler phrases like "solve problems" or "overcome challenges" would suffice. The phrase is most impactful when the difficulties are substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "surmount difficulties" functions as a verb phrase with a noun object, describing the action of overcoming obstacles. It is used to convey a sense of achievement and resilience in the face of challenges. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the phrase and its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "surmount difficulties" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, as affirmed by Ludwig. It describes the action of overcoming challenges, often with a sense of triumph and perseverance. While relatively rare in overall usage, it appears most frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts. Alternatives like "overcome challenges" or "triumph over adversity" can be used depending on the desired nuance. When using "surmount difficulties", it's best to reserve it for situations where the challenges are substantial, and the effort to overcome them is significant. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing both personal and organizational achievements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcome challenges

This alternative emphasizes the act of successfully dealing with and moving past obstacles.

triumph over adversity

This phrase suggests a significant victory against difficult or unfavorable circumstances.

rise above problems

This alternative indicates an ability to elevate oneself and deal with troubles effectively.

conquer obstacles

This phrase implies a strong and decisive overcoming of barriers.

navigate challenges

This suggests a skillful approach to dealing with difficulties, implying careful maneuvering.

weather hardships

This phrase focuses on enduring and surviving through tough times or difficulties.

beat the odds

This alternative implies overcoming challenges that were expected to be insurmountable.

handle obstacles

This phrase conveys the ability to deal with barriers and other difficulties.

resolve issues

This focuses on finding solutions to problems and difficulties.

address problems

This implies taking action to deal with difficulties and issues.

FAQs

How can I use "surmount difficulties" in a sentence?

You can use "surmount difficulties" to describe the act of overcoming challenges. For example, "The team had to "surmount difficulties" to complete the project on time."

What can I say instead of "surmount difficulties"?

You can use alternatives like "overcome challenges", "triumph over adversity", or "rise above problems" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "surmount difficulties" or "overcome challenges"?

"Surmount difficulties" and "overcome challenges" are similar, but "surmount difficulties" often suggests a greater level of effort and a more significant accomplishment. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it best to use "surmount difficulties" instead of simpler phrases?

Use "surmount difficulties" when you want to emphasize the magnitude of the challenge and the effort required to overcome it. Simpler phrases may be more suitable for everyday situations.