difficult case
[/ˈdɪfɪkəlt keɪs/]
noun phrasepl: difficult cases
caso difícil
1. A situation, person, or problem that is hard to deal with, solve, or manage
This patient is a difficult case that requires specialized treatment.
Este paciente é um caso difícil que requer tratamento especializado.
2. A legal matter or lawsuit that presents unusual complications or challenges
The lawyer took on a difficult case involving multiple jurisdictions.
O advogado assumiu um caso difícil envolvendo várias jurisdições.
3. A person whose behavior or personality is challenging to manage or understand
He's a difficult case, but with patience we can help him.
Ele é um caso difícil, mas com paciência podemos ajudá-lo.
This phrase is commonly used in professional contexts across English and Portuguese-speaking cultures, particularly in legal, medical, and educational fields. In Brazil, it's frequently heard in professional discourse and media when discussing complex cases or problematic individuals. The phrase carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, indicating complexity rather than impossibility.
NYC Slang
tough nut to crack
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