HARDSHIP Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

hardship

noun

ˈhärd-ˌship

as in difficulty

something that is a cause for suffering or special effort especially in the attainment of a goal working two jobs was a hardship he was willing to endure to get out of debt

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of hardship Organizers explained the sculpture could symbolize families separated during moments of historical trauma or individuals reuniting after hardship. —

Charlotte Observer, 27 Feb. 2026 That faux effortlessness can make all the hardship of filmmaking feel worth it, if only for one night. —

Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 27 Feb. 2026 Hiring Anthem Tax Services may be a reasonable option for taxpayers dealing with hardship situations and who owe significant back taxes, or are facing business tax issues. —

Deane Biermeier, USA Today, 27 Feb. 2026 Critics, meanwhile, say requirements cause undue hardship at a time of high housing unaffordability and homelessness. —

Amancai Biraben, Oc Register, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hardship

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hardship

difficulty

Noun

Travelers are advised to check with their airline or travel agent as soon as possible for information on rebooking and refunds, though passengers are reporting difficulties getting assistance because of high caller volumes.

— Marnie Hunter, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026
Despite those difficulties, Kalhor has built a thriving career both inside Iran and abroad, including winning a Grammy Award as part of the Silkroad Ensemble and earning three nominations as a solo artist.

— Anastasia Tsioulcas, NPR, 3 Mar. 2026