What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trouble
Example
I'm having trouble with my computer. [trouble: noun]
Example
She's been having trouble sleeping lately. [trouble: gerund or present participle]
difficulty
Example
The math problem posed a difficulty for the students. [difficulty: noun]
Example
He had difficulty understanding the instructions. [difficulty: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Difficulty is more commonly used than trouble in everyday language. Difficulty is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while trouble is less common and often used in more informal or colloquial settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trouble and difficulty?
While trouble is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, difficulty is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
