Used when someone uses more effort than necessary, implying the task could be done easier. Mark made hard work of organizing his desk, taking all day to sort his papers.
Pro Tip 2/3
Subjectivity
What is 'hard work' can differ between people, it sometimes reflects personal attitude. She makes hard work of grocery shopping, but I usually find it straightforward.
Pro Tip 3/3
Unnecessary Complications
Highlights the act of complicating tasks unnecessarily, adding steps or worries. By double-checking everything, he made hard work of a simple checklist.