1.
rough going; difficult progress; hard sailing
A situation where progress is slow and difficult, especially in negotiations, projects, or discussions. Originally referred to difficult sea voyages.
交渉が難航している。
The negotiations are proving difficult.
人材確保が難航し、プロジェクトが遅れている。
Securing personnel has been difficult, and the project is behind schedule.
両国の意見が大きく食い違い、条約締結に向けた協議は難航を極めた。
The two countries' opinions diverged greatly, and talks toward a treaty were extremely difficult.
ETYMOLOGY:
Literally "difficult voyage" — from 難 (difficult) + 航 (navigation/sailing). The nautical origin is still felt in the expression.
USAGE:
難航 is commonly used with negotiations, discussions, and projects that are stalling or making slow progress. The expression 難航を極める means the difficulty is extreme.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 交渉が難航する (negotiations are proving difficult)
- 難航を極める (to face extreme difficulty)
- 調整が難航する (coordination is proving difficult)
- 難航が予想される (difficulty is expected)