Top 40 Slang For Struggled – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the challenges and difficulties we face, sometimes words fall short. But fear not, as we’ve got you covered with a curated list of the top slang for “struggled”. From everyday obstacles to major setbacks, our team has gathered the most relevant and relatable terms to help you navigate through life’s hurdles with a touch of humor and understanding. So, buckle up and get ready to level up your vocabulary game with these fresh and trendy expressions!

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1. Battled

To engage in a difficult or challenging struggle, often against an opponent or obstacle.

For example, “He battled his way to the top of the mountain.”
In a sports context, one might say, “The two teams battled it out in a fierce competition.”
A person discussing personal challenges might say, “I battled with my inner demons for years before finding peace.”

2. Grappled

To struggle or wrestle with something, often in a figurative sense.

For instance, “She grappled with her emotions after the loss of a loved one.”
In a political discussion, one might say, “The government is grappling with the issue of income inequality.”
A person describing a difficult decision might say, “I grappled with whether to take the job offer or not.”

3. Wrestled

To engage in a physical struggle or contest, often involving grappling or holds.

For example, “He wrestled his opponent to the ground.”
In a conversation about childhood memories, one might say, “We used to wrestle each other in the backyard.”
A person describing a challenging task might say, “I wrestled with assembling the furniture for hours.”

4. Labored

To work or exert oneself with difficulty, often due to physical or mental strain.

For instance, “He labored to lift the heavy box.”
In a discussion about pregnancy, one might say, “She labored for hours before giving birth.”
A person describing a difficult project might say, “I labored over the report, making sure every detail was perfect.”

5. Slogged

To move with great effort or difficulty, often through mud, water, or other challenging terrain.

For example, “They slogged through the muddy field.”
In a conversation about a long hike, one might say, “We slogged up the steep mountain trail.”
A person describing a tiring workday might say, “I slogged through piles of paperwork all afternoon.”

6. Tussled

This term refers to engaging in a physical struggle or fight with someone. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a difficult or challenging situation.

For example, “The two wrestlers tussled on the mat for the championship title.”
In a heated argument, someone might say, “We tussled over different opinions for hours.”
A person describing a tough negotiation might say, “I tussled with the other party to reach a fair agreement.”

7. Strove

This word is the past tense of “strive,” which means to make a great effort to achieve something. It can be used to describe putting in a lot of effort or working hard to overcome obstacles.

For instance, “She strove to be the best student in her class.”
A person talking about their career might say, “I strove to climb the corporate ladder and reach a leadership position.”
In a personal development context, someone might say, “I strove to become a better version of myself every day.”

8. Grinded

This slang term is derived from the word “grind,” which means to work hard or put in a lot of effort. It is often used to describe working tirelessly or persistently towards a goal.

For example, “He grinded through the night to finish the project on time.”
A student talking about studying for exams might say, “I grinded for hours to prepare for the test.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “Our team grinded through intense training sessions to improve their skills.”

9. Contended

This word can be used to describe struggling or fighting against something, whether it’s an opponent, a challenge, or an obstacle. It implies a sense of resistance and determination.

For instance, “The athlete contended with a strong competitor in the race.”
A person talking about their journey to success might say, “I contended with many setbacks and failures along the way.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The candidate contended against tough opposition in the election.”

10. Strived

This term is the past tense of “strive,” which means to make an earnest or vigorous effort to achieve something. It can be used to describe putting in a lot of effort or working hard towards a goal.

For example, “She strived to be the top performer in her field.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I strived to overcome my fears and become a more confident individual.”
In a professional context, someone might say, “Our team strived to meet the project deadline despite various challenges.”

11. Endured

To continue to exist or endure through difficult circumstances or challenges.

For example, “Despite facing many obstacles, she endured and achieved her goals.”
In a discussion about perseverance, someone might say, “Endurance is key when facing adversity.”
A person might describe a difficult situation by saying, “I endured a lot of hardships during that time.”

12. Fought tooth and nail

To engage in a fierce and determined struggle or fight.

For instance, “She fought tooth and nail to overcome her addiction.”
In a conversation about a contentious issue, someone might say, “We need to fight tooth and nail for our rights.”
A person might describe a difficult competition by saying, “They fought tooth and nail for the championship.”

13. Pushed through

To continue making progress or working towards a goal despite difficulties or obstacles.

For example, “Even though it was tough, she pushed through and completed the project.”
In a discussion about resilience, someone might say, “Pushing through challenges is essential for personal growth.”
A person might describe a difficult time in their life by saying, “I pushed through a lot of hardships to get where I am today.”

14. Strained

To put in a lot of physical or mental effort in order to accomplish something.

For instance, “He strained to lift the heavy box.”
In a conversation about a demanding task, someone might say, “It’s important to recognize when you’re feeling strained and take a break.”
A person might describe a challenging workout by saying, “I really strained myself during that intense exercise routine.”

15. Clawed

To struggle or fight vigorously in order to achieve something.

For example, “She clawed her way to the top of the corporate ladder.”
In a discussion about determination, someone might say, “Sometimes you have to claw your way out of difficult situations.”
A person might describe a competitive sports game by saying, “Both teams clawed for victory until the very end.”

16. Gritted

To “grit” means to persevere and push through a difficult situation or task. It implies determination and a refusal to give up.

For example, “Despite the obstacles, she gritted her teeth and finished the race.”
In a motivational speech, someone might say, “When life gets tough, you have to grit your way to success.”
A friend might encourage another by saying, “You can do it! Just grit it out and keep going.”

17. Toiled

To “toil” means to work hard and exert a lot of effort. It implies a struggle or laborious task.

For instance, “He toiled all day in the hot sun to finish the construction project.”
In a conversation about studying, someone might say, “I’ve been toiling away at this assignment for hours.”
A boss might commend an employee by saying, “I appreciate your dedication and the way you toil to get the job done.”

18. Suffered

To “suffer” means to endure hardship, pain, or difficulty. It implies a struggle and often carries a negative connotation.

For example, “She suffered through a long and arduous recovery after the accident.”
In a discussion about a challenging situation, someone might say, “We’ve all suffered in some way, but it’s how we overcome that matters.”
A person might reflect on a difficult experience by saying, “I’ve suffered setbacks, but they’ve made me stronger.”

19. Waded through

To “wade through” means to navigate through a difficult or challenging situation. It implies having to push through obstacles and make progress despite the struggle.

For instance, “They waded through the paperwork to complete the project on time.”
In a conversation about a complex topic, someone might say, “I had to wade through a lot of research to understand it.”
A student might describe their experience with a difficult class by saying, “I’ve been wading through the material all semester.”

20. Hurdled

To “hurdle” means to overcome obstacles or challenges. It implies successfully navigating through difficulties and continuing forward.

For example, “She hurdled over every obstacle in her path to achieve her goals.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “Life is full of hurdles, but it’s how we overcome them that defines us.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Let’s hurdle over our challenges and come out stronger on the other side.”

21. Weathered the storm

This phrase is often used to describe someone who has successfully endured and overcome a difficult or challenging situation.

For example, “Despite facing numerous setbacks, she weathered the storm and achieved her goals.”
In a discussion about overcoming adversity, someone might say, “Sometimes all you can do is weather the storm and wait for better days.”
A person reflecting on a tough period in their life might say, “I went through a lot, but I weathered the storm and came out stronger.”

22. Fended off

This phrase is used to describe the act of defending oneself against a threat or resisting something that is causing difficulty or trouble.

For instance, “He fended off the attackers and escaped unharmed.”
In a conversation about dealing with distractions, someone might say, “I had to fend off all the noise and focus on my work.”
A person discussing a difficult decision might say, “I had to fend off temptation and make the right choice.”

23. Struggled

This word is a straightforward term for facing challenges or experiencing difficulty in achieving something.

For example, “She struggled to find a job after graduating.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “We all struggle at times, but it’s important to keep pushing forward.”
A person reflecting on a tough period in their life might say, “I struggled for a while, but eventually things started to improve.”

24. Overcame

This word describes the act of successfully dealing with and overcoming a challenge or obstacle.

For instance, “She overcame her fear of public speaking and delivered a powerful presentation.”
In a conversation about personal achievements, someone might say, “I overcame many obstacles to reach this point in my career.”
A person discussing a difficult situation might say, “It was a tough journey, but I overcame every obstacle in my path.”

25. Conquered

This word implies successfully defeating or mastering a difficult task or situation.

For example, “He conquered his fear of heights and went skydiving.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “I conquered my self-doubt and pursued my dreams.”
A person reflecting on a challenging experience might say, “I conquered every obstacle that came my way and emerged stronger.”

26. Surmounted

This word means to overcome or conquer a difficulty or obstacle. It implies a sense of accomplishment and success after facing a challenge.

For example, “Despite the odds, she surmounted the obstacles and achieved her goals.”
In a motivational speech, someone might say, “Remember, you have the strength to surmount any challenge.”
A person discussing personal growth might reflect, “I’ve surmounted many obstacles in my life, and each one has made me stronger.”

27. Prevailed

To prevail means to come out on top or be victorious in a struggle or competition. It suggests a sense of triumph and success in overcoming adversity.

For instance, “After a long battle, justice prevailed and the truth was revealed.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “Despite being the underdogs, the team prevailed and won the championship.”
A person discussing a difficult situation might say, “I faced many challenges, but in the end, love and kindness prevailed.”

28. Triumphed

Triumphing means to achieve a great victory or success. It conveys a strong sense of accomplishment and overcoming obstacles.

For example, “Against all odds, she triumphed over her fears and pursued her dreams.”
In a historical context, someone might say, “The civil rights movement triumphed over racial injustice.”
A person discussing personal achievements might say, “I triumphed over adversity and achieved my goals through hard work and determination.”

29. Vanquished

To vanquish means to defeat or overcome someone or something completely. It implies a sense of overpowering and dominating the opposition.

For instance, “The hero vanquished the villain and saved the city from destruction.”
In a battle or war context, someone might say, “The army vanquished their enemies and claimed victory.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I’ve vanquished my self-doubt and now have confidence in my abilities.”

30. Mastered

To master something means to gain complete control or understanding of it. It suggests a high level of proficiency and skill in a particular area.

For example, “After years of practice, he mastered the art of playing the piano.”
In a discussion about learning a new language, someone might say, “I’ve finally mastered French after years of studying.”
A person discussing personal development might say, “I’ve mastered my emotions and now have better control over my reactions.”

31. Navigated

To navigate means to successfully handle or deal with a difficult or challenging situation.

For example, “She navigated through the complexities of starting her own business.”
In a discussion about overcoming obstacles, someone might say, “I navigated through a tough time in my life and came out stronger.”
A person reflecting on their struggles might say, “I’ve navigated my way through countless setbacks and challenges.”

32. Tackled

To tackle means to confront or address a problem or difficulty directly and with determination.

For instance, “She tackled the issue of inequality in her community.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I tackled my fears and pursued my dreams.”
A person discussing overcoming adversity might say, “I’ve tackled many challenges in my life and learned valuable lessons along the way.”

33. Confronted

To confront means to face or deal with a difficult or unpleasant situation directly and without avoiding it.

For example, “She confronted her fears and took a leap of faith.”
In a discussion about overcoming obstacles, someone might say, “I confronted the issue head-on and found a solution.”
A person reflecting on their struggles might say, “I’ve confronted many challenges in my life and emerged stronger.”

34. Overpowered

To overpower means to be overwhelmed or overcome by a difficult or challenging situation.

For instance, “She was overpowered by the demands of her job.”
In a conversation about facing adversity, someone might say, “I felt overpowered by the weight of my responsibilities.”
A person discussing a difficult experience might say, “I was overpowered by grief, but eventually found healing.”

35. Withstood

To withstand means to endure or bear up against a difficult or challenging situation.

For example, “She withstood the pressures of a high-stakes competition.”
In a discussion about resilience, someone might say, “I’ve withstood many hardships and come out stronger.”
A person reflecting on their struggles might say, “I’ve withstood the test of time and emerged victorious.”

36. Outlasted

To outlast means to survive or endure for a longer period of time compared to someone or something else. It implies a sense of resilience or perseverance in the face of challenges.

For example, in a sports competition, one team might say, “We outlasted our opponents and won the game.”
In a job interview, a candidate might mention, “I have a track record of outlasting difficult work environments.”
A person discussing a difficult relationship might say, “I tried my best, but I couldn’t outlast the constant arguments.”

37. Outmaneuvered

To outmaneuver means to outsmart or outwit someone in a strategic or tactical situation, often resulting in gaining an advantage or achieving a desired outcome.

For instance, in a game of chess, a player might say, “I outmaneuvered my opponent and trapped their king.”
In a business negotiation, someone might mention, “I was able to outmaneuver the competition and secure a better deal.”
A person discussing a difficult conversation might say, “I tried to outmaneuver their arguments, but they were too well-prepared.”

38. Outwitted

To outwit means to cleverly or cunningly outsmart or trick someone, often by using one’s intelligence or wit to gain an advantage.

For example, in a prank, one person might say, “I outwitted my friend by hiding their keys and watching them search.”
In a game of strategy, a player might mention, “I outwitted my opponent by anticipating their moves.”
A person discussing a difficult negotiation might say, “I tried to outwit the other party, but they saw through my tactics.”

39. Outplayed

To outplay means to perform better than someone else, especially in a competitive situation. It implies a higher level of skill, talent, or ability.

For instance, in a soccer match, a player might say, “Our team outplayed the opponents and scored more goals.”
In a music competition, a performer might mention, “I outplayed the other contestants and won first place.”
A person discussing a work project might say, “I tried my best, but my colleague outplayed me with their innovative ideas.”

40. Pushed

To push means to struggle or exert effort in order to achieve or overcome something. It implies a sense of resistance or difficulty in reaching a desired outcome.

For example, in a weightlifting competition, a participant might say, “I pushed myself to the limit and lifted the heaviest weight.”
In a challenging situation, someone might mention, “I pushed through the obstacles and achieved my goal.”
A person discussing a difficult decision might say, “I pushed myself to make the right choice, even though it was hard.”