Which condition is characterized by hoarseness or difficulty in speaking?

Dysphonia is characterized by hoarseness or difficulty in speaking, making it the correct choice. This condition can arise from a variety of causes including inflammation of the larynx, vocal cord nodules, or other irritations affecting the vocal cords. Patients with dysphonia often describe their voice as weak, breathy, or strained, making communication challenging.

Other conditions mentioned, while related to voice or sensory functions, do not specifically represent hoarseness or difficulties in speaking. Anosmia refers to a loss or absence of the sense of smell, which does not impact vocal ability. Aphonia indicates a complete loss of voice, making it distinct from dysphonia, where some voice production is still possible but impaired. Anthracosis, on the other hand, involves lung disease due to coal dust inhalation but does not directly relate to vocal function.