Hardship/ˈhɑːrdʃɪp/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Emotional weight Hardship often implies emotional stress as well as physical or financial challenge. Her expression revealed the hardship she felt during the divorce. Pro Tip 2/3Long-term suffering Hardship usually refers to prolonged periods of difficulty, not brief or minor issues. Living in a war zone, they endured years of hardship. Pro Tip 3/3Formal contexts 'Hardship' is appropriate for serious and formal discussions about life difficulties. We must address the hardships faced by the homeless community.