ENGLISH
REFERENCE

have a hard time

idiom
Meaning

To experience a difficulty in attaining one's goals or objectives.


Examples
SIMPLE

I have a hard time waking up early on Mondays.

CONTEXTUAL

She had a hard time understanding the new software, so she asked her manager for extra training.

COMPLEX

Despite his extensive preparation, the candidate had a hard time articulating his vision for the company during the high-stakes interview.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  2. 02

    about time

    Far past the desired time.

  3. 03

    any time now

    Very soon.

  4. 04

    any time soon

    soon

  5. 05

    better luck next time

    Used to wish somebody hope in future success after a failure.

  6. 06

    bide one's time

    To wait, especially for a suitable opportunity.

  7. 07

    bone hard

    As hard as a bone, rock hard.

  8. 08

    borrowed time

    A period of time whose precise duration is not known but which can be expected to be quite limited, and at the end of which one's situation, benefits, or opportunities will be entirely terminated.

Last updated April 17, 2026