Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this difficult times
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'this difficult times' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a specific period of time that is marked by hardship, difficulty, or strife. For example, "We will get through this difficult times together."
✓ Grammatically correct
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
They have to survive this difficult time.
News & Media
Our thoughts remain with the family at this difficult time.
News & Media
We would appreciate some privacy at this difficult time.
News & Media
At this difficult time we would ask for privacy".
News & Media
Mark's family & friends request privacy at this difficult time".
News & Media
Our love to you all at this difficult time.
News & Media
My thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
News & Media
The hospital had been supporting her throughout this difficult time".
News & Media
Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time".
News & Media
"Our thoughts are with the families at this difficult time.
News & Media
You know, to help at this difficult time.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing about sensitive situations, use "this difficult time" to convey empathy and understanding.
Common error
While "this difficult time" is appropriate for expressing sympathy, in formal reports or analyses, consider using more specific and descriptive language to detail the exact nature of the challenges.
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this difficult times" functions as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun and providing context to the situation or period being referred to. Ludwig AI indicates that the similar phrase "this difficult time" is more common and grammatically correct.
Frequent in
News & Media
0%
Science
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, while understandable, the phrase "this difficult times" is less common and grammatically less preferred than the singular form "this difficult time". As highlighted by Ludwig AI, the singular form is considered more correct. The phrase generally functions to acknowledge and empathize with a challenging situation, often appearing in contexts related to news and media, expressing sympathy or requesting understanding. Alternatives such as "these challenging times" or "this trying period" may be more appropriate depending on the context. When writing, consider the singular form for greater grammatical accuracy and clarity.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
these challenging times
Replaces "difficult" with "challenging", maintaining a similar meaning but with a slightly different nuance.
this trying period
Substitutes "difficult times" with "trying period", which emphasizes the stressful nature of the situation.
this tough period
Uses "tough" instead of "difficult", conveying a similar sense of hardship.
these hard times
Replaces "difficult" with "hard", providing a more straightforward and common expression.
this period of adversity
Replaces "difficult times" with a more formal and literary phrase.
this time of hardship
Substitutes "difficult times" with "time of hardship", highlighting the severe difficulties involved.
this crisis
Replaces "difficult times" with "crisis", emphasizing the urgency and severity of the situation.
this moment of difficulty
Changes the structure to focus on a specific "moment" rather than an extended "times".
this unfortunate situation
Shifts the focus to the negative circumstances rather than the duration of the difficulty.
this struggle
Replaces "difficult times" with a focus on the act of struggling and overcoming obstacles.
FAQs
How can I use "this difficult times" in a sentence?
While "this difficult times" can be used, it's more grammatically correct and common to use "this difficult time". For example, "We appreciate your patience during "this difficult time"".
What can I say instead of "this difficult times"?
You can use alternatives like "these challenging times", "this trying period", or "this tough period" depending on the specific context.
Which is correct, "this difficult times" or "this difficult time"?
"This difficult time" is grammatically correct. "This difficult times" is less common and may sound awkward to native English speakers.
Is "this difficult times" appropriate for formal writing?
While understandable, "this difficult times" is generally better suited for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using "this challenging period" or similar phrases to convey the same meaning with greater precision and professionalism.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
89%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested