have a hard time of it
Synonym of have a rough time of it.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He is having a hard time of it at his new job.”
“Since the company closed down, my neighbor has been having a hard time of it finding steady work.”
“Despite his outward confidence, the young man was clearly having a hard time of it as he struggled to adapt to the harsh realities of life in the city.”
- 01
a week is a long time in politics
In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.
- 02
about time
Far past the desired time.
- 03
any time now
Very soon.
- 04
any time soon
soon
- 05
better luck next time
Used to wish somebody hope in future success after a failure.
- 06
bide one's time
To wait, especially for a suitable opportunity.
- 07
bone hard
As hard as a bone, rock hard.
- 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 August 10, 2026