WordLens

struggle

1 of 2verb
/ˈstrʌɡəl/
Forms:struggles,struggling,struggled,struggled
1

to put a great deal of effort to overcome difficulties or achieve a goal

B2transitive
  • He struggled to lift the heavy box onto the shelf, but with determination, he eventually succeeded.
  • Employees often struggle to meet tight deadlines.
  • She struggled to overcome her fear of public speaking, but with practice and support, she improved.
  • The team struggled to adapt to the new project requirements.
  • Right now, the climbers are struggling to reach the summit.
Synonyms:
2

to argue or compete with someone or something, particularly to get something specific

  • The workers struggled with management over better wages and working conditions.
  • The activists struggled with the government over new environmental regulations.
  • He struggled with his business partner about the direction of the company.
3

to move forward or make progress with difficulty

  • She struggled through the thick mud, determined to reach the finish line.
  • The hikers struggled up the steep hill, each step more tiring than the last.
  • They struggled through the deep snow, making slow progress toward the cabin.
  • The runners struggled through the final stretch of the marathon.
4

to engage in a violent fight with someone, especially to get out of a difficult situation

  • He struggled with the thief, trying to wrestle the bag away.
  • They struggled in the water, fighting to stay afloat in the storm.
  • The workers struggled with the heavy machinery to complete the task.
  • She struggled hard as she tried to swim to safety.
  • He struggled on the ground, trying to free himself from the tight ropes.
Synonyms: