hardship

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hardship" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition of suffering, difficulty, or adversity that someone is experiencing. Example: "The community faced significant hardship after the natural disaster, struggling to rebuild their homes and lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In times of hardship we need it more than ever.

The Guardian - Books

"These increases are a heavy burden on our constituents," added Phil Gingrey of Georgia, who pressed Sebelius for more detail on how those facing financial hardship will avoid government penalties for failing to sign up.

The Guardian

The union is gathering evidence of hardship faced by journalists across the four titles because of the pay freeze.

The Guardian

But last week the European commission cut its estimate for GDP growth this year to a miserly 0.5% The evidence of real and painful economic hardship is subtle in Athens.

The Guardian - Business

The MPs' report follows a short inquiry undertaken amid public concern that sanctions were being imposed inappropriately, causing hardship, destitution and ill-health, and routinely forcing jobseekers to rely on food banks to survive.

The Guardian

Iranians hope the deal will end years of international isolation and economic hardship – and avert the threat of war.

The Guardian

Similarly, when the stricken community bonds together to pay for Billy's travel expenses to the climatic audition despite their own obvious hardship, the scene smacks of cliché.

The Guardian - Film

Making hard choices now will help avert much greater hardship in the future.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jubilant Iranians took to the streets on Thursday night to celebrate news of a breakthrough in nuclear negotiations with the West, and to express their hopes that the deal will end years of international isolation and economic hardship – and avert the threat of war.

The Guardian

"We announce our allegiance to the Caliph of the Muslims... and will hear and obey in times of difficulty and prosperity, in hardship and ease, and to endure being discriminated against, and not to dispute about rule with those in power, except in case of evident infidelity regarding that which there is a proof from Allah," said the message.

The Guardian

If claimants demonstrate that they can't buy essential items as a result of their sanction, they can apply for a hardship payment".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hardship", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific type of difficulty or suffering being experienced, such as financial, emotional, or physical hardship.

Common error

While "hardship" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overuse in formal writing. Consider using more specific terms like "economic distress" or "challenging circumstances" to provide greater clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The word "hardship" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a condition of suffering, difficulty, or adversity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in describing financial, economic, and personal challenges.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Business

10%

Film

3%

Less common in

Travel

2%

Books

2%

Music

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hardship" is a commonly used noun to describe conditions of suffering, difficulty, or adversity. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and personal narratives. While generally neutral in tone, it's essential to consider specific alternatives such as "adversity" or "economic distress" for greater precision. Remember, while "hardship" is appropriate in formal writing, avoid overuse. Ludwig provides diverse examples highlighting the word's versatility and nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adversity

Similar in meaning, but often refers to a specific event or situation causing difficulty.

difficulty

A more general term referring to any type of problem or challenge.

suffering

Emphasizes the experience of pain, distress, or hardship.

tribulation

Implies a period of great trouble or suffering.

ordeal

Suggests a difficult or painful experience that tests one's endurance.

affliction

Refers to a state of pain, distress, or suffering.

privation

Focuses on the lack of basic necessities or comforts of life.

misfortune

Highlights bad luck or unfavorable circumstances.

distress

Emphasizes emotional or mental suffering.

economic woes

Specifically relates to financial difficulties or economic problems.

FAQs

How can I use "hardship" in a sentence?

You can use "hardship" to describe a state of suffering or difficulty. For example, "The family faced significant hardship after losing their home."

What are some synonyms for "hardship"?

Alternatives to "hardship" include "adversity", "difficulty", and "suffering", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "hardship" in formal writing?

Yes, "hardship" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider using more precise language to convey the specific nature of the difficulty. For instance, use "financial strain" instead of general "hardship".

What's the difference between "hardship" and "inconvenience"?

"Hardship" implies a severe difficulty or suffering, while "inconvenience" refers to a minor difficulty or annoyance. Experiencing a lack of food due to job loss is a "hardship", while having to wait in line at the grocery store is an "inconvenience".