What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plight
Example
The plight of the refugees was heart-wrenching. [plight: noun]
Example
She was in a plight and needed help. [plight: adjective]
hardship
Example
The pioneers faced many hardships as they traveled westward. [hardships: noun]
Example
Living in poverty can be a great hardship. [hardship: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hardship is more commonly used than plight in everyday language. Hardship is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while plight is less common and may be used in more formal or literary settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plight and hardship?
Both plight and hardship can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, plight may be perceived as more formal or literary due to its less frequent use in everyday language.