the central difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the central difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the main challenge or problem in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In this research paper, we will explore the central difficulty of implementing sustainable practices in urban development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

So, fittingly but irritatingly, the central difficulty with real-life courtroom drama is the law.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The central difficulty is to ensure that no new loops are created inside the plugs themselves.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But this does not address the central difficulty with the LCP - our reluctance to discuss issues surrounding death.

Independent

The central difficulty is that in a field it is possible to divide but in a ring it is not.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The issue of paywalls gets to the heart of the central difficulty facing media organisations in the digital age: who is going to pay for it all.

The Guardian - Opinion

And as always, the central difficulty for any translator lies in conveying words and concepts that lack true analogues in our language.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Ms. Brown noted one of the central difficulties of keeping good teachers in the system by adding, "We could waste our time training you for two years, then you want to go to Scarsdale and take our training with you".

The New York Times

The review of NHS leadership by former Marks & Spencer executive chairman Lord Rose, published in June, pinpointed one of the central difficulties facing the health service – the organisation is committed to a vast range of changes but does not have sufficient management and leadership capability to deliver them.

The Guardian

The back-and-forth underscored one of the central difficulties in resolving the crisis: while opposition activists and armed groups refuse to negotiate until the government stops its crackdown, Mr. Assad's government says it has the right to respond with force to armed attacks.

The New York Times

The findings of this study demonstrate that one of the central difficulties in monitoring patient safety issues and preventing patient safety incidents for people with intellectual disabilities is the trend for reporting and monitoring those patient safety incidents that result, or could have resulted, in clearly defined physical harm.

BMC Health Services Research

The other central difficulty derives from the many ways there are to undercut a broad range of stakeholders and keep them from making a meaningful contribution to the deliberation.

Global Health Action

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the central difficulty", ensure you clearly articulate what makes it the primary challenge. Provide context and specific details to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid assuming that what you perceive as the central difficulty is universally recognized as such. Acknowledge alternative perspectives or contributing factors to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the central difficulty" functions as a noun phrase identifying the main problem or challenge within a particular context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to pinpoint the primary issue, as seen in various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the central difficulty" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to identify the primary obstacle or challenge within a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples from diverse sources like news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans neutral to formal registers, effectively emphasizing the key issue hindering progress or understanding. Alternatives like "the main obstacle" or "the key problem" offer similar meanings with slight variations in focus.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main obstacle

Focuses more directly on the idea of a barrier or impediment.

the key problem

Emphasizes that it is the most important issue that needs to be solved.

the primary challenge

Highlights the demanding nature of the situation.

the core issue

Indicates that it is the most fundamental or essential aspect.

the fundamental problem

Focuses on the underlying root of the difficulty.

the crux of the matter

Highlights the decisive point or critical feature.

the heart of the problem

Emphasizes the core or essence of the difficulty.

the sticking point

Indicates the specific issue that is causing the most trouble or disagreement.

the major stumbling block

Focuses on something that prevents progress.

the chief concern

Highlights that this is the most important worry or source of anxiety.

FAQs

How can I use "the central difficulty" in a sentence?

Use "the central difficulty" to introduce the main problem or challenge in a situation. For instance, "The central difficulty in solving climate change is international cooperation."

What are some alternatives to saying "the central difficulty"?

You can use alternatives like "the main obstacle", "the key problem", or "the primary challenge" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "the central difficulty" or "a central difficulty"?

"The central difficulty" implies there is one main issue. "A central difficulty" suggests it's one of several major problems. Choose the phrasing that best reflects the situation.

What makes "the central difficulty" different from "a challenge"?

"The central difficulty" specifies the most significant or primary challenge, while "a challenge" is a more general term for any difficulty or obstacle.