English Profile

difficult · adjective

/ˈdɪf.ə.kəlt/Full view

difficult (NOT EASY)

A1 when something is not easy to do or understand

Dictionary examples:

a difficult problem/choice/task

It will be very difficult to prove that they are guilty.

Many things make it difficult for women to reach the top in business.

He finds it extremely difficult being a single parent.

Learner example:

This book is very important because I have a difficult exam next Friday. (Key English Test; A2; Portuguese)

difficult (NOT FRIENDLY)

B1 not friendly or easy to deal with

Dictionary examples:

The manager is difficult to deal with/a difficult person to deal with.

His wife is a very difficult person.

Please children, don't be so difficult!

Learner example:

I'm not a difficult person and I can cook very [well]. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

put sb in a difficult position

C1 to cause someone to be in a difficult situation

Dictionary example:

When two of your best friends argue it puts you in a very difficult position.

Learner example:

I know that I will put you in a difficult position with my absence but I must leave. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)