noun

die Schwierigkeit, -en

difficulty

Etwas, das nicht leicht zu machen oder zu verstehen ist.

The German word "Schwierigkeit" is a noun that means "difficulty" or "challenge." It is derived from "schwierig," which means "difficult" or "hard," combined with the suffix "-keit," which typically transforms an adjective into a noun representing a state or condition.

Similar words in German include "Herausforderung" (challenge), "Problem" (problem), and "Komplikation" (complication).

Differences:

  • While "Schwierigkeit" refers specifically to the level of difficulty in a situation, "Herausforderung" has a slightly more positive connotation of a challenge to overcome.
  • "Problem" could suggest a more specific issue requiring a solution, while "Komplikation" implies additional complications that may arise from a particular situation.

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Examples

Die Schwierigkeit liegt in der Entscheidung.noun

The difficulty lies in the decision.

Eine Schwierigkeit besteht oft im Detail.noun

A difficulty often lies in the detail.

Schwierigkeiten beim Lernen sind normal.noun

Difficulties in learning are normal.

Eine Schwierigkeit besteht darin, die richtige Lösung zu finden.noun

One difficulty is to find the right solution.

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