Definition

A situation or event that causes difficulty, hardship, or misfortune.

Example

She showed great strength in overcoming adversity during her life.

Conversation

I’ve been thinking a lot about how we face adversity in life.

Yeah, it really shapes who we are as people.

Exactly! It can be tough, but those challenges help us grow.

For sure, overcoming adversity makes the victories feel even sweeter.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Adversity is formed from "ad-" (meaning to or toward) and "vertere" (meaning to turn). The word describes a situation that turns against someone, leading to hardship or difficulty.

Memory Tip

Think of a situation that turns 'toward' ('ad-') challenges or difficulties — that's what adversity means.

Visually Confused Words