Hardship: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe serious suffering or a severe lack of necessities.

• Many families experienced financial hardship during the economic recession

Refers to something that is hard to do, understand, or deal with, often used for less severe challenges.

• He had difficulty understanding the new software at first

Typically refers to a state of serious or continued difficulty, often encompassing a broader range of challenges.

• She showed great resilience in the face of adversity when she lost her job and her home

Describes a stroke of bad luck or an unfavorable event, often used in a more specific context.

• It was pure misfortune that their car broke down in the middle of nowhere

Implies continuous effort and conflict against obstacles, can be both physical and emotional.

• Her struggle with depression lasted for many years, but she eventually found help

This word is often used to describe severe suffering or trials, especially those that are prolonged and cause significant distress. It can have a negative connotation and is usually related to financial, physical, or emotional struggles.

• The family faced great hardships during the war.
• He endured many hardships to get where he is today.

This word is used when talking about a situation that is hard to deal with or understand. It has a neutral connotation and can apply to many different contexts, from minor inconveniences to serious problems.

• She had difficulty understanding the instructions.
• The project faced several difficulties along the way.

This word is best used when referring to a tangible or metaphorical barrier that must be overcome. It generally has a neutral tone and suggests the need for effort or strategy to bypass or remove it.

• The biggest obstacle in their path was the large boulder.
• Learning a new language can be an obstacle for many people.

This word is commonly used to describe something that obstructs or hinders progress. It has a more formal tone and is often used in legal, medical, or academic contexts.

• His speech impediment made it difficult for him to communicate.
• The lack of funding is a serious impediment to the project.

This word refers to a task or situation that requires effort and determination to overcome. It often has a neutral or even positive connotation, implying the potential for growth and achievement.

• Starting a new business can be a big challenge.
• She loves taking on new challenges at work.