What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hindrance
Example
The heavy traffic was a hindrance to our arrival at the airport. [hindrance: noun]
Example
The language barrier was a hindrance to their communication. [hindrance: noun]
difficulty
Example
I had difficulty understanding the instructions. [difficulty: noun]
Example
She found it difficult to balance work and family responsibilities. [difficult: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Difficulty is more commonly used than hindrance in everyday language. Difficulty is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hindrance is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hindrance and difficulty?
Both hindrance and difficulty can be used in formal and informal contexts, but hindrance may be perceived as more formal due to its less frequent usage.
