What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tribulation
Example
The family went through a great tribulation after losing their home in a fire. [tribulation: noun]
Example
The athlete faced many tribulations on the road to recovery from injury. [tribulations: plural noun]
difficulty
Example
The math problem presented a difficulty for the student. [difficulty: noun]
Example
She had difficulty understanding the instructions. [difficulty: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Difficulty is more commonly used than tribulation in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Tribulation is less common and may have a more formal or religious connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tribulation and difficulty?
Tribulation is typically associated with a more formal or religious tone, while difficulty is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
