# have a hard time

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/have-a-hard-time
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- I have a hard time waking up early on Mondays.
- She had a hard time understanding the new software, so she asked her manager for extra training.
- Despite his extensive preparation, the candidate had a hard time articulating his vision for the company during the high-stakes interview.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.