undue difficulty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undue difficulty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a task or requirement is excessively challenging or burdensome. Example: "The new regulations impose undue difficulty on small businesses trying to comply with the law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

As for the anticipated record crowd, Belmont can accommodate 120,000 without undue difficulty.

The New York Times - Sports

But forming letters with a pencil and blending sounds to render a word appeared to cause him undue difficulty.

The Guardian - Books

An adult trout can capture and consume a fish about one-quarter its own length without undue difficulty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A famous run, regularly used in World Cup competitions but not of undue difficulty, it plunges more than 3,500 feet from here to Santa Cristina.

The New York Times - Travel

The assailants were repelled without undue difficulty; but the Sarmatian Iazyges, now firmly in control of the region between the Tisza and Danube rivers, posed a threat for the future.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Mehta, an old friend of Mr. Barrett's, said in a recent interview that he had been open to the suggestion — if the Caramoor stage was big enough to accommodate the Philharmonic and if both a date and a program could be arranged without undue difficulty.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

His senior executives, and the editors of the two papers, believe they have accomplished the task without undue difficulties.

The Guardian

167 Nevertheless, for most patients, the treatment goals for lipids and blood pressure were achievable without undue difficulties.

Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy

This compensating posture, in turn, can strain the muscles in the lower back and legs, causing undue fatigue and difficulty performing routine tasks.

The New York Times

Does the child have symptoms like breathing difficulty or undue drowsiness?

The New York Times - Health

One view expressed was that language difficulties caused undue delay in establishing contact and acquaintance with patients and generated communication problems.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undue difficulty", ensure it accurately reflects a situation where the level of difficulty is disproportionate or unwarranted. Avoid using it for general difficulties that are expected or reasonable.

Common error

Avoid using "undue difficulty" to describe everyday challenges or minor inconveniences. The phrase implies a significant and often unfair level of hardship, so reserve it for situations where the difficulty is genuinely excessive or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undue difficulty" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "undue" modifies the noun "difficulty". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely recognized.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

23%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undue difficulty" is a phrase used to describe a level of difficulty that is excessive, unwarranted, or disproportionate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When using this phrase, it's essential to ensure that the situation genuinely warrants such a strong characterization, avoiding its application to commonplace challenges. Consider synonyms like "excessive hardship" or "unreasonable burden" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undue hardship

This alternative focuses on the suffering and distress caused by the difficulty.

excessive hardship

This alternative emphasizes the severity of the difficulty, focusing on the burdensome aspect.

unreasonable burden

This phrase highlights the unfair or unjustified nature of the difficulty.

inordinate struggle

This alternative underscores the disproportionate effort required.

unjustified challenge

This emphasizes the lack of valid reason for the difficulty.

unwarranted complication

This emphasizes the unnecessary or unjustified nature of the difficulty.

gratuitous obstacle

This highlights the uncalled-for and unnecessary nature of the difficulty.

needless adversity

This focuses on the unnecessary and undesirable nature of the difficulty.

excessive adversity

This focuses on the disproportionate level of misfortune.

unreasonable impediment

This highlights the unfair obstruction or hindrance presented by the difficulty.

FAQs

What does "undue difficulty" mean?

The phrase "undue difficulty" refers to a level of difficulty that is excessive, inappropriate, or unwarranted in a given situation. It suggests that the challenge is beyond what is reasonably expected or justified.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "undue difficulty"?

Use "undue difficulty" when describing situations where the challenges or obstacles are disproportionately high or unfair, creating a significant burden. Consider using alternatives like "excessive hardship" or "unreasonable burden" if they fit better.

What are some synonyms for "undue difficulty"?

Synonyms for "undue difficulty" include "excessive hardship", "unreasonable burden", "inordinate struggle", and "unwarranted complication". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How does "undue difficulty" differ from simple "difficulty"?

"Difficulty" simply indicates a challenge or obstacle. "Undue difficulty" implies that the difficulty is excessive, unfair, or inappropriate. The "undue" component adds a sense of disproportion or injustice to the situation. You can also describe it as a "gratuitous obstacle".