What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adversity
Example
The team faced adversity when their star player was injured. [adversity: noun]
Example
She showed great courage in the face of adversity. [adversity: noun]
hardship
Example
The family endured many hardships during the war. [hardships: noun]
Example
He faced financial hardship after losing his job. [hardship: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hardship is more commonly used than adversity in everyday language, especially in contexts related to poverty, illness, or oppression. Adversity is more commonly used in motivational or inspirational contexts, such as sports or personal development.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adversity and hardship?
Both adversity and hardship are formal words that are appropriate for academic or professional writing. However, adversity may be more commonly used in motivational or inspirational contexts, while hardship may be more commonly used in social or economic contexts.
