Толковый словарь английского языка Oxford English Reference - difficulty

n. (pl. -ies) 1 the state or condition of being difficult. 2 a a difficult thing; a problem or hindrance. b (often in pl.) a cause of distress or hardship (in financial difficulties; there was someone in difficulties in the water). Phrases and idioms make difficulties be intransigent or unaccommodating. with difficulty not easily. Etymology: ME f. L difficultas (as DIS-, facultas FACULTY)