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struggle

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈstrʌɡl/

KK: /ˈstrʌgəl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a great effort to do something, often facing difficulties or challenges.


Example

She had to struggle to finish her project on time.


Tense Forms

Past: struggled

Past Participle: struggled


Conversation
Sloth A
I really struggle with my math homework sometimes.
Sloth B
I know how that feels; math can be tough!
Sloth A
Yeah, I just can't seem to grasp the concepts easily.
Sloth B
Maybe we can study together; it might help us both.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
strive
contend
grapple
Antonyms
succeed
ease
rest
noun
Definition

A difficult effort or fight to achieve something, often involving hardship or conflict.


Example

Her struggle to balance work and family life was challenging.


Conversation
Sloth A
I’ve been thinking about how much I struggle with time management lately.
Sloth B
Yeah, it can be really tough to balance everything.
Sloth A
I feel like my struggle is affecting my grades this semester.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To move or put something in a particular place with difficulty or effort.


Example

She struggled to lift the heavy box onto the shelf.


Tense Forms

Past: struggled

Past Participle: struggled


Conversation
Sloth A
I really had to struggle that couch up the stairs yesterday.
Sloth B
Wow, those stairs can be a nightmare with heavy furniture.
Sloth A
Yeah, I almost gave up halfway through.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Struggle → The word originates from Old French *estrugle*, meaning to strive or contend. It describes the act of making a strenuous effort or fighting against difficulties.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for striving or contending, which helps you remember that struggle means to make a strenuous effort against challenges.

Visually Confused Words
upstruggle
striggle
straggle
ruggle
prestruggle
straggler
snuggle
smuggle
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
battle
effort
strife
Antonyms
peace
ease
calm
I totally get it! Moving is always such a hassle.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wrestle
heave
tug
Antonyms
ease
release
surrender