Hardship
ˈhɑːrdʃɪp
Definitions
A condition of difficult suffering, usually caused by lack of resources, poverty, or extreme circumstances.
ˈhɑːrdʃɪp
Severe suffering or difficulty, especially caused by a lack of money or resources.
The economic downturn brought hardship to many families.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to build a LEGO castle, but you're missing half the bricks and it's raining. Hardship is when life makes things tough, like not having enough of something you need or facing a difficult situation.
👶 For kids: Hardship means something is really hard and not fun, like when you don't have enough toys to play with or when it's raining and you can't go outside.
More Examples
The soldiers faced incredible hardship during the war.
Despite the hardship, they persevered and found success.
How It's Used
"Many families face financial hardship during economic downturns."
"The pioneers endured immense hardship crossing the plains."
"Relief organizations work to alleviate the hardship of refugees."
Idioms & expressions
face hardship
To encounter difficult conditions or suffering.
"The company is likely to face hardship in the coming year."
endure hardship
To bear or tolerate difficult conditions or suffering over a period of time.
"The refugees had to endure hardship and uncertainty."
From Middle English *hardeshipe*, from Old English *heardscipe* ('hardness, severity'), from *heard* ('hard') + *-scipe* ('-ship').
The word 'hardship' has been used for centuries to describe difficult conditions. Historical texts often refer to 'the hardships of war' or 'the hardships faced by pioneers'.
Memory tip
Think of a HARD SHIP – the sea can bring on tough challenges.