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Struggling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
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struggling

[หˆstrสŒษก(ษ™)lษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

having difficulty

To struggle means to have difficulty with something, to make a great effort to do something, or to fight against something. It can also refer to making forceful or violent efforts to get free of restraint, resist or fight against an opponent. Struggling can be both physical and emotional, involving challenges and obstacles that require effort and determination to overcome.

Synonyms

battle, endure, fight, grapple, strive.

Examples of usage

  • He was struggling to understand the math problem.
  • She struggled to keep her balance on the icy sidewalk.
  • The fisherman struggled to reel in the big catch.
  • The country is struggling to recover from the economic crisis.
  • The team is struggling to win the championship.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Many people experience struggling as a part of personal growth, where facing challenges helps build resilience and strength.
  • Research shows that struggling can lead to greater satisfaction and achievement when individuals eventually overcome difficulties.
  • Struggling often involves feelings of frustration, but overcoming it can boost confidence and self-esteem.

Literature

  • Many famous characters in literature struggle with personal demons, making their journeys relatable, such as Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz'.
  • Struggling is a common theme in poetry and stories, often representing the human condition and the quest for happiness.
  • Authors often use the motif of struggle to develop characters and highlight moral dilemmas in their narratives.

Pop Culture

  • Popular songs often talk about struggling with emotions or life's challenges, like 'Fight Song' by Rachel Platten, which focuses on persevering through tough times.
  • Reality TV shows frequently depict contestants struggling to achieve goals, keeping audiences engaged with their emotional journeys.
  • Struggling is a common plot element in movies, inspiring viewers and creating empathy for characters facing obstacles.

Education

  • Students often struggle with new topics, highlighting the importance of supportive teaching methods to help them understand.
  • Struggling can happen in learning environments, but educators focus on tools and strategies to aid students in overcoming challenges.
  • Group work and collaborative projects encourage students to share their struggles, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

History

  • Many social movements in history have involved groups struggling for rights, illustrating collective dedication and resilience.
  • Historical figures, such as Nelson Mandela, struggled against systems of oppression, showcasing the power of perseverance in achieving justice.
  • Economic struggles, like during the Great Depression, forced societies to adapt and find innovative solutions to overcome hardship.

Origin of 'struggling'

The word 'struggling' originated from the Middle English word 'strugglen', which is derived from the Old French word 'estrugler'. Its earliest usage dates back to the 14th century. The concept of struggling has been a part of human existence since ancient times, reflecting the innate human drive to overcome challenges and obstacles. Throughout history, individuals and societies have faced various struggles, leading to personal growth, societal change, and resilience in the face of adversity.

See also: struggles.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,133 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.