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difficult

Q: How is the word 'difficult' different from other adjectives like it?

The words arduous and hard are common synonyms of difficult . While all three words mean "demanding great exertion or effort," difficult implies the presence of obstacles to be surmounted or puzzles to be resolved and suggests the need of skill or courage. // the difficult ascent of the mountain

Q: When would 'arduous' be a good substitute for 'difficult'?

While in some cases nearly identical to difficult , arduous stresses the need of laborious and persevering exertion. // the arduous task of rebuilding

Q: When could 'hard' be used to replace 'difficult'?

In some situations, the words hard and difficult are roughly equivalent. However, hard implies the opposite of all that is easy. // farming is hard work

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Synonyms & Antonyms of difficult

1 requiring considerable physical or mental effort

difficult questions on the exam that required analytical thinking

Synonyms for difficult

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Antonyms for difficult

2 requiring exceptional skill or caution in performance or handling

it's a difficult situation when two of your friends are quarreling and you're trying to stay out of it

Synonyms for difficult

Words Related to difficult

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Frequently Asked Questions About difficult

How is the word difficult different from other adjectives like it?

The words arduous and hard are common synonyms of difficult. While all three words mean "demanding great exertion or effort," difficult implies the presence of obstacles to be surmounted or puzzles to be resolved and suggests the need of skill or courage.

the difficult ascent of the mountain