Struggles: meaning, definitions and examples

Covered in the first entry.

Use 'challenges' when referring to tasks or situations that require effort and determination but are often seen as opportunities for growth or achievement.

• Learning a new language can be a fun challenge.
• She accepted the challenge to climb the highest mountain.

Use 'difficulties' to describe situations or conditions that cause trouble or make something hard to accomplish, often without specifying an emotional struggle.

• We encountered some technical difficulties during the presentation.
• He has financial difficulties due to job loss.

Use 'obstacles' when talking about physical or figurative barriers that block progress and require effort to overcome.

• She faced many obstacles in her journey to become a doctor.
• The road was closed due to obstacles left by the storm.

Use this word when referring to ongoing, difficult challenges or conflicts someone might face. It is often used in both physical and emotional contexts and may convey a sense of continuous difficulty.

• She faces many struggles in her career.

Use 'strive' when indicating a strong effort to achieve something difficult. It often implies a diligent and vigorous attempt over a period of time.

• She strives to be the best in her class.

This term is best used in situations involving a direct confrontation or conflict. It can refer to physical battles, but also metaphorical struggles against difficulties or causes. It often conveys a sense of aggression or confrontation.

• He got into a fight at the bar last night.
• They fight for equal rights.

Apply 'endeavor' when talking about earnest and sustained efforts to achieve a goal. It often has a positive connotation and suggests determination and purposeful effort.

• Their endeavor to climb the mountain was successful.