What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hardly
Example
I can hardly hear you over the noise. [hardly: adverb]
Example
He hardly ever goes to the gym. [hardly: adverb]
Example
She worked so hard that she could hardly stand. [hardly: adverb]
just
Example
I just finished my homework. [just: adverb]
Example
It's just not fair that he gets all the credit. [just: adverb]
Example
I only need just a little bit of sugar. [just: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Just is more commonly used than hardly in everyday language. Just is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hardly is less common and refers to specific situations where something is barely happening or has negative outcomes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hardly and just?
Just is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while hardly is typically used in informal contexts and may sound too casual in formal settings.
