What is difficulty? Pronunciation and usage in English

difficulty means . Learn how to pronounce and use difficulty through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of difficulty

difficultynoun

/ˈdɪfɪklti/
Definition & pronunciation of difficulty

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "difficulty" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

  • dif-fi-cult-i-ty - This is the key!

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • dif: Pronounced like "dihff" (rhymes with "tiff") – It's a bit of a trick! The "i" sound is shortened and blended into the "f" sound.
  • fi: Pronounced like "fee" – as in "fee" for a tip.
  • cult: Pronounced like "koolt" – think of the word "cool," but add a "t" at the end.
  • i: Pronounced like a short "i" as in "bit."
  • ty: Pronounced like "tee" – as in "tea."

3. Putting it All Together:

The whole word is pronounced something like: di-ˈfɪk-əl-tɪ (The 'ˈ' symbol indicates the primary stress – it's on the second syllable, "fi").

4. Tips & Tricks:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce difficulty" on YouTube. You’ll find many audio clips and videos.
    • Forvo: (forvo.com) is a website with pronunciations from native speakers.
    • Merriam-Webster Dictionary: (merriam-webster.com) – Click the audio icon next to the word.

5. Common Mispronunciations:

  • Saying "dif-fi-cult-ee" (adding an extra "e" at the end) is a very common mistake. Don't do it!

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a more detailed breakdown of a specific part (like the "dif" sound)?

Usage and examples with the word difficulty in English

Let's break down how to use the word "difficulty" in English. It's a versatile word with several nuances, so understanding how to use it correctly is important.

1. Basic Meaning: A Problem or Challenge

At its core, "difficulty" refers to something that is hard to do, understand, or overcome.

  • Example: "I'm having a difficulty understanding this math problem." (This means you're struggling to understand it.)
  • Example: "He faced many difficulties during his journey to America." (He encountered problems and challenges.)

2. Different Forms and Usage:

  • Difficulty (noun): This is the most common form. It's a thing – the problem itself.

    • "There's a difficulty with the car's engine." (The problem with the engine)
    • "She has a difficulty learning a new language." (Her struggle to learn)

  • Difficult (adjective): Describes something that causes a difficulty.

    • "The test was very difficult." (The test presented a challenge)
    • "He's a difficult student to teach." (He presents challenges for the teacher)

  • To have difficulty (phrase): Expresses that you're struggling.

    • "I had difficulty sleeping last night." (I struggled to sleep)
    • "They had difficulty finding a suitable location for the meeting." (They struggled to find a place)

  • Dealing with difficulty (phrase): Refers to the act of overcoming or managing a problem.

    • "We need to deal with the difficulty of the shortage." (We need to address the problem)
    • "She’s learning how to deal with difficulties effectively." (She's learning to cope with problems.)

3. Levels of Difficulty:

"Difficulty" can be used to describe the degree of a problem:

  • Minor difficulty: "There's a slight difficulty with the instructions." (A small problem)
  • Significant difficulty: "He experienced a significant difficulty in finding employment." (A major problem)
  • Extreme difficulty: “Overcoming this extreme difficulty required great determination.” (A very hard challenge)

4. Common Phrases Using "Difficulty":

  • A difficulty arises: (A problem appears)
  • Overcome a difficulty: (To solve a problem)
  • The difficulty lies in...: (The problem is in…) – Often used when explaining a complex issue.
  • Difficulties arise from…: (Problems come from…)

5. Synonyms (Words similar in meaning):

  • Problem
  • Challenge
  • Obstacle
  • Hurdle
  • Issue
  • Trouble
  • Hardship

Here are some examples putting it all together:

  • "The difficulty with the project is the lack of funding." (The problem is the funding)
  • "She found the new software quite difficult to use." (The software was challenging)
  • "Many students had difficulty understanding the complex concepts." (They struggled to understand)
  • "We need to deal with the difficulty of rising inflation.” (We need to address the problem.)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you using "difficulty" in? (e.g., writing an essay, speaking in a conversation, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word difficulty

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