this difficult situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this difficult situation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a challenging or problematic circumstance that is currently being faced. Example: "We need to come together as a team to find a solution to this difficult situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This difficult situation is not entirely the sector's fault.

The Guardian

We would be happy to discuss this difficult situation with you in greater detail.

The Guardian - Business

"We have to be ready for this difficult situation to continue for some time".

The New York Times

The incidents described in your article illustrate that there is more than one way to perceive this difficult situation.

The New York Times

But she gives no such space to the feelings of the others caught up in this difficult situation.

The New Yorker

He went on to say that officials in the Brooklyn diocese were praying so "this difficult situation is resolved".

The New York Times

The Google boss, adds Brandt, would strive to make sure that all parties are as happy as can be expected in this difficult situation.

The Guardian

The elder Mr. Hastert, Republican of Illinois, said: "It's regrettable, but as always, Ethan enjoys my love and full support in the face of this difficult situation.

The New York Times

"If we really say it's a brotherly nation, then we should of course act like close relatives and help them in this difficult situation," he said.

The Guardian

NHS Employers chief executive Danny Mortimer suggested that Malawana should try "to find a path with us through this difficult situation".

The Guardian

The women with the least resources and the least skills to navigate this difficult situation are the ones who suffer the most".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this difficult situation", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the situation difficult to maintain clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid overuse by varying your language. Synonyms like "challenging circumstance" or "tough predicament" can add nuance and prevent repetition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this difficult situation" functions as a noun phrase, where "difficult" modifies "situation". It identifies a specific circumstance that presents challenges or problems. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this difficult situation" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe challenging or problematic circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English. While versatile, its neutral register suggests that more formal alternatives may sometimes be preferable, especially in academic or professional contexts. Frequency analysis shows it appears most often in News & Media, followed by Science and Formal & Business. When aiming for clear and impactful communication, ensure the context clearly defines the difficulty and consider synonyms like "challenging circumstance" or "tough predicament" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this challenging situation

Replaces "difficult" with "challenging", emphasizing the demanding nature of the situation.

this tough predicament

Uses "tough predicament" to highlight the troublesome and complex nature of the situation.

this problematic scenario

Emphasizes the potential problems arising from the situation.

this complex issue

Focuses on the intricacy and complication of the problem at hand.

this predicament

Emphasizes the awkward and complex nature of the situation.

this awkward circumstance

Highlights the uncomfortable and delicate nature of the situation.

this unfortunate event

Focuses on the regrettable and undesirable nature of the situation.

this dire straits

Emphasizes the severe and urgent nature of the situation.

this crisis

Uses "crisis" to indicate a critical and decisive point in the situation.

this setback

Replaces the entire phrase with 'setback' emphasizing the hindrance

FAQs

How can I use "this difficult situation" in a sentence?

You can use "this difficult situation" to refer to a challenging or problematic circumstance. For example: "We need to come together to resolve "this difficult situation"".

What can I say instead of "this difficult situation"?

You can use alternatives like "this challenging situation", "this tough predicament", or "this complex issue" depending on the specific context.

Is "this difficult situation" formal or informal?

"This difficult situation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "this difficult situation" and "this challenging situation"?

While both phrases are similar, "this challenging situation" might emphasize the need for effort and problem-solving, whereas "this difficult situation" simply acknowledges the problematic nature.