Definition

In a way that is hard to do or understand.

Example

She solved the puzzle difficultly, taking a long time to figure it out.

Conversation

Why did you find the math test so hard?

I think I struggled with it because I handled the questions difficultly.

I felt the same way; some equations were really tricky.

Yeah, we should study together next time to make it easier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Difficultly → It is formed from "difficult" (from Latin "difficilis", meaning hard to do) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "difficultly" means in a manner that is hard to do or with difficulty.

Memory Tip

Think of doing something that is 'hard' ('difficult') and how you might do it 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that 'difficultly' refers to doing something with difficulty.

Visually Confused Words