Synonyms for

Struggle

Verb / ˈstrʌgʌl / Another word for struggle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To try very hard to do something, even when it is difficult

Synonyms & similar words

conflict battle sputter shin skin clamber scramble fight contend shinny effort endeavor fight grapple battle contest endeavour strife tussle wrestle clash compete contend strive resist oppose challenge confront grind labor

Synonyms by register

Formal

contend strive labor endeavor

Informal

wrestle grapple fight hassle

Literary

labor under wrestle with contend against

Antonyms

succeed triumph win conquer prevail ease flow

Common collocations

  • struggle to survive
  • struggle with addiction
  • struggle for power
  • struggle against oppression
  • struggle to understand
  • struggle with illness
  • struggle to breathe

Word family

noun struggle
verb struggle
adjective struggling

Usage note

The verb 'struggle' often implies a difficult and prolonged effort. It can be used transitively (e.g., 'struggle a difficult problem') or intransitively (e.g., 'struggle to succeed').

Example sentences

  1. She struggled to lift the heavy box.
  2. He struggled with his homework all night.
  3. The team struggled to win the game.
  4. The company struggled to make a profit.
  5. The hiker struggled to climb the steep mountain.

Quotes

  • The struggle you're in today is developing the strength you need for tomorrow. Don't give up.
  • Great leaders are willing to sacrifice their own personal interests for the good of the team. They understand that the struggle is temporary, but the success is permanent.
  • The only way to overcome your struggles is to face them head-on.

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