What is struggle? Pronunciation and usage in English

struggle means . Learn how to pronounce and use struggle through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of struggle

struggleverb/noun

/ˈstrʌɡl/
Definition & pronunciation of struggle

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "struggle" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "struggle" is typically divided into three syllables:

  • struh (like "struh" as in "struggle to understand")
  • ggle (pronounced like "ggle" as in “ggle” - a made-up syllable)

2. Detailed Pronunciation:

  • "struh": This part is fairly straightforward.

    • "str": Pronounced like the "str" in "street."
    • "uh": This is a short, unstressed "uh" sound – similar to the "uh" in "about" or "up." It's a schwa sound.

  • "ggle": This is where it gets a bit tricky. It’s a unique sound. Here’s how to approach it:

    • Think of a very short, quick "g" sound – like in "goat" but much shorter.
    • Immediately follow it with a very quick, light "l" sound. It blends almost instantly.
    • It’s not a clear “gl” sound like in “glad.” It’s compressed.

3. Putting it together:

The whole word flows together as: struh-ggle (with a very fast, light “ggle” sound)

4. Tips & Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:

    • Google Translate: Type "struggle" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/struggle/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers from various regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce struggle" on YouTube – you’ll find many helpful videos.

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

  • Focus on the "ggle" sound: Really pay attention to that quick "g" followed immediately by the "l". This is the most challenging part for many.

To summarize: Struh-ggle (with a very fast, light “ggle”)

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word “struggle”?

Usage and examples with the word struggle in English

Let's break down how to use the word "struggle" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with lots of nuances. Here's a breakdown of its different meanings and how to use them in sentences:

1. As a Verb (To Struggle - To Have Difficulty)

  • Meaning: This is the most common use. It means to have difficulty doing something; to make an effort against resistance. It implies a sense of difficulty and exertion.
  • Synonyms: Struggle, grapple, battle, contend, labor, persevere, wrestle, fight.
  • Examples:
    • “I struggled to understand the complex math problem.” (Meaning: I had difficulty understanding it.)
    • “She struggled to finish the marathon, but she kept going.” (Meaning: She faced a difficult effort to complete it.)
    • “He struggled with depression for years.” (Meaning: He experienced persistent difficulty and hardship.)
    • “The company is struggling to stay afloat.” (Meaning: The company is having a hard time surviving financially.)

2. As a Noun (A Struggle - A Difficult Situation or Problem)

  • Meaning: This refers to a difficult or problematic situation; a conflict or hard-fought effort.
  • Synonyms: Conflict, hardship, difficulty, problem, challenge, ordeal, trial.
  • Examples:
    • “Poverty is a constant struggle for many families.” (Meaning: Poverty is a difficult and ongoing hardship.)
    • “He faced a difficult struggle to overcome his addiction.” (Meaning: He experienced a challenging and difficult period.)
    • “The legal struggle for justice was long and arduous.” (Meaning: The process of seeking justice was difficult and took a long time.)
    • “Her biggest struggle is balancing work and family.” (Meaning: Her biggest difficulty is finding a balance between these things.)

3. Figurative Use - Internal Struggles

  • Meaning: "Struggle" can also refer to internal battles – emotional, psychological, or spiritual difficulties.
  • Examples:
    • “He struggled with feelings of guilt after the accident.” (Meaning: He had a difficult internal battle with guilt.)
    • “She struggled to accept her identity.” (Meaning: She faced an internal conflict with her sense of self.)
    • “Many people struggle with self-doubt.” (Meaning: Many people confront internal doubts and uncertainties.)

Tips for Using "Struggle" Effectively:

  • Show, Don't Tell: Instead of just saying "He struggled," describe how he struggled. Use active verbs to illustrate the difficulty. (e.g., “He clawed at the rock face, his muscles burning.”)
  • Use Vivid Language: "Struggle" often works well with words that evoke emotion – pain, effort, determination.
  • Context is Key: The specific nuance of "struggle" depends on the context. Consider what kind of difficulty you're describing.

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To have difficulty, to exert effort I struggled to open the jar.
Noun A difficult situation/problem Poverty is a constant struggle.
Figurative Internal conflict, emotional difficulty He struggled with his anxieties.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., creative writing, academic writing, a story, a description of a situation)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re trying to improve?

Synonyms for the word struggle

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