the core difficulty is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the core difficulty is that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a main challenge or issue in a discussion or argument. Example: "In this project, the core difficulty is that we lack sufficient funding to proceed with our plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The difficulty is that last part.

The Guardian

The difficulty is that smartphones are notoriously rewarding.

Huffington Post

The reason for the difficulty was that the core aggregates having a diameter range of 100 200 nm are extremely tight and could not be broken up by any known method of de-aggregation.

Carbon

The difficulty in identifying eukaryotic core promoters is that unlike in prokaryotes, eukaryotic promoters are sometimes located several hundred kb away from the translation initiation site (TIS).

BMC Genomics

The core difficulty of France, Germany and Italy is a lack of jobs.

The Guardian

One reason they have both now run into difficulties is that they tried to look like the other parties by developing policies on all sorts of non-core issues.

The Guardian - Opinion

The core of the difficulty is a considerable talent.

The Guardian

The difficulty is, of course, bringing that information to trial.

Vice

The core problem is that minds wander.

The New Yorker

The team realized that one of the core difficulties with planning an office space is that there is a level of uncertainty around which investments will pay off.

TechCrunch

At the core of the difficulties is the simple fact that the national interests of the United States and Israel have never perfectly aligned.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the core difficulty is that" to clearly and directly introduce the central problem or challenge in your discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "the core difficulty is that" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by employing synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the core difficulty is that" functions as a connector, introducing a statement that identifies the central problem or challenge. It sets up an explanation or discussion of the main obstacle. Ludwig indicates that this is a grammatically correct phrase.

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 core difficulty is that" serves to introduce the main problem. Ludwig's analysis shows that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While examples are limited, the phrase’s function is to spotlight the central challenge. You can replace it with similar expressions to avoid repetition and the best use cases involve introducing a critical impediment. Since there are no usage patterns, this phrase usage is categorized as missing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the main problem is that

Replaces "core difficulty" with "main problem", focusing on the primary issue.

the central issue is that

Substitutes "core difficulty" with "central issue", highlighting the key point of contention.

the key challenge is that

Replaces "core difficulty" with "key challenge", emphasizing the obstacle to overcome.

the fundamental problem is that

Emphasizes the basic nature of the difficulty.

the primary obstacle is that

Focuses on the difficulty as something blocking progress.

the root of the problem is that

Highlights that the difficulty is the origin of the problem.

the essence of the difficulty is that

Focuses on the most important aspect of the difficulty.

the heart of the matter is that

Highlights the most important thing about the difficulty.

the crux of the matter is that

Substitutes "core difficulty" with "crux of the matter", stressing the decisive point.

the major stumbling block is that

Replaces "core difficulty" with "major stumbling block", emphasizing the impediment it presents.

FAQs

How can I use "the core difficulty is that" in a sentence?

This phrase is used to introduce the main problem or challenge being discussed. For example, "The core difficulty is that we lack sufficient resources."

What are some alternatives to "the core difficulty is that"?

You can use alternatives such as "the main problem is that", "the central issue is that", or "the key challenge is that" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "the core difficulty is that" in formal writing?

Yes, this phrase is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and directly identifies the central problem. However, consider the specific audience and purpose of your writing to ensure it's the most effective choice.

What's the difference between "the core difficulty is that" and "a difficulty is that"?

"The core difficulty is that" highlights the main or most important difficulty. "A difficulty is that" simply introduces one of potentially many difficulties. The former emphasizes centrality, while the latter simply acknowledges a problem.