What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
difficulty
Example
I had difficulty solving the math problem. [difficulty: noun]
Example
It's difficult to find a job in this economy. [difficult: adjective]
hardship
Example
The refugees endured many hardships during their journey. [hardships: noun]
Example
Living in a war zone is a great hardship. [hardship: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Difficulty is more commonly used than hardship in everyday language. Difficulty is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while hardship is more specific and often used in more serious or formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between difficulty and hardship?
Hardship is generally considered more formal and serious than difficulty. It is often used in legal or official contexts to describe situations of suffering or deprivation, while difficulty can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
