Struggle Meaning

UK /ˈstrʌɡl/
US /ˈstrʌɡəl/
Word Definition
struggle meaning

Struggle Definition & Usage

verb

To exert a great deal of physical or mental effort in a task that is difficult or challenging.

Examples

  • "He struggled to carry the heavy boxes up the stairs."
  • "She struggled to find a solution to the complex math problem."
  • "The team struggled through the long and grueling match."
  • "After months of preparation, I still struggled with the final exam."
  • "I’m struggling to balance work and personal life."
verb

To fight or compete with someone or something, especially in a way that is difficult or messy.

Examples

  • "The workers struggled with the union leaders over fair wages."
  • "She struggled with her emotions during the difficult conversation."
  • "They struggled for control of the territory for years."
  • "The student struggled against the pressure of societal expectations."
  • "He struggled with his addiction for many years before getting help."
noun

A difficult or challenging task or series of tasks, especially one requiring significant effort or endurance.

Examples

  • "The struggle for equality continues to this day."
  • "His struggle to make ends meet was an ongoing challenge."
  • "The political struggle for independence lasted for decades."
  • "Her struggle with depression was something she faced every day."
  • "They are engaged in a constant struggle against poverty."

Cultural Context

The word 'struggle' has been deeply embedded in various cultural and historical contexts, often used in relation to personal and collective hardships. It is a central theme in literature, philosophy, and social movements, symbolizing the effort to overcome adversity or injustice. In modern times, 'struggle' can be applied to personal challenges (e.g., mental health, work-life balance), social issues (e.g., civil rights), or even physical endeavors (e.g., sports, physical labor).

The Mountain Climb

Story

The Mountain Climb

Jacob stood at the base of the towering mountain, the wind howling fiercely. He could barely make out the peak through the thick fog, but he knew that reaching it would take more than just determination; it would require every ounce of his energy. As he began his climb, his hands gripped the icy rocks, and his legs burned with every step. It wasn’t just the physical exertion that drained him; his mind wandered to the memories of all the times he had struggled in life—facing rejection after rejection, each one feeling like an insurmountable obstacle. But this mountain, he thought, was the ultimate test. He had to overcome it, just like he had learned to overcome all the challenges in his life. With each painful step, he thought about his years of struggling with depression. How many times had he tried to fight it off? He remembered days when even getting out of bed felt like an insurmountable task. The struggle was real, and it was exhausting, but it made moments like this one—moments of strength—more meaningful. As he approached the peak, the wind howled louder, trying to push him back, but Jacob pushed forward, his resolve growing stronger with each step. He had struggled before, but now he understood that struggle wasn’t just something to endure—it was something to embrace. Finally, after hours of climbing, he stood at the summit, the world spread out before him. He had fought for every inch, and now he was free. The struggle had been worth it. Jacob paused for a moment, catching his breath. He had reached the top, but the struggle hadn’t ended. It was a part of him now, something he would carry forward, not just in the mountains, but in every part of his life.

The Mountain Climb