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difícil means difficult — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: September 1, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

difícil

adjective • /[dee-FEE-seel]/

difficult

Example:

Este problema es un poco difícil.

This problem is a bit difficult.

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🧠 What does difícil mean?

The Spanish word 'difícil' means 'difficult' in English. It describes something that requires a lot of effort, skill, or is hard to understand. It can refer to tasks, situations, people, or concepts. For example, a difficult exam, a difficult decision, a difficult person, or a difficult concept to grasp.

📚 Extra examples

  • Este examen es muy difícil.
    This exam is very difficult.
  • Fue una decisión difícil de tomar.
    It was a difficult decision to make.
  • Es difícil aprender un nuevo idioma.
    It's difficult to learn a new language.
  • La situación económica es difícil.
    The economic situation is difficult.
  • A veces es difícil entenderle.
    Sometimes it's difficult to understand him/her.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'difficult' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'difficult' is 'difícil'.
How do you pronounce 'difícil' in Spanish?
It's pronounced dee-FEE-theel, with the stress on the second syllable. The 'c' is pronounced like the 'th' in 'thin'.
How do you use 'difícil' in a sentence?
You can use 'difícil' before or after the noun it modifies, similar to English. For example, 'un problema difícil' (a difficult problem) or 'el examen es difícil' (the exam is difficult).
What is the English translation of 'difícil'?
'Difícil' translates to 'difficult' in English.
Does 'difícil' change for gender or number?
No, 'difícil' doesn't change its form for gender. However, it does change for number. For plural nouns, use 'difíciles' (dee-FEE-thee-les). For example, 'preguntas difíciles' (difficult questions).
Is 'difícil' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'difícil' is a very common word used in everyday Spanish conversations.
Does 'difícil' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'difícil' doesn't have any common slang meanings or double meanings. It's a straightforward word.
Is 'difícil' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'difícil' are the same in both Spain and Latin America.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "difícil"

Synonyms: complicado, duro, complejo, laborioso, arduo
Opposites: fácil, sencillo, simple

💡 Did You Know?

While 'difícil' is the most common way to say 'difficult,' you can also use synonyms like 'complicado' to add nuance to your speech.

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