Top 50 Slang For Struggling – Meaning & Usage

Struggling with keeping up with the latest slang? You’re not alone! We’ve got your back with a curated list of the most relatable and current slang for struggling. From everyday mishaps to navigating life’s challenges, this list will have you nodding in agreement and maybe even picking up a new phrase or two. Don’t miss out on this fun and informative read!

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1. Battling

This term refers to actively engaging in a difficult situation or fighting against obstacles. It can be used to describe someone who is determined to overcome struggles.

For example, “I’m battling with my addiction, but I won’t give up.”
A person going through a tough breakup might say, “I’m battling with my emotions right now.”
In a discussion about mental health, someone might share, “I’ve been battling depression for years, but I’m getting stronger.”

2. Scrambling

This slang term describes the act of trying to manage or deal with a difficult situation in a hurried or frantic manner. It implies a sense of urgency or desperation in the face of challenges.

For instance, “I’m scrambling to finish this project before the deadline.”
A student might say, “I’m scrambling to study for all my exams at once.”
In a conversation about financial difficulties, someone might share, “I’ve been scrambling to pay my bills this month.”

3. Grappling

This word refers to the act of struggling or wrestling with a problem or challenge. It implies a continuous effort to overcome difficulties and find solutions.

For example, “I’ve been grappling with my self-confidence lately.”
Someone discussing a complicated decision might say, “I’m grappling with whether to take this job offer.”
In a conversation about personal growth, a person might share, “I’ve been grappling with my fear of failure, but I’m determined to overcome it.”

4. Suffering

This term describes the experience of going through intense pain, hardship, or difficulty. It can be used to express the emotional or physical struggles one is facing.

For instance, “I’m suffering from a broken heart.”
Someone discussing a chronic illness might say, “I’ve been suffering from migraines for years.”
In a conversation about social issues, a person might share, “Many people are suffering from poverty and inequality.”

5. Wrestling

This slang term refers to the act of engaging in a struggle or conflict. It can be used to describe the process of dealing with challenges and trying to overcome them.

For example, “I’m wrestling with my inner demons.”
Someone discussing a difficult decision might say, “I’m wrestling with whether to quit my job or not.”
In a conversation about personal growth, a person might share, “I’ve been wrestling with my fears, but I’m determined to conquer them.”

6. Fighting

This term refers to the act of actively battling against difficult circumstances or trying to overcome a particular problem.

For example, someone might say, “I’m fighting to find a job in this tough economy.”
In a discussion about personal growth, a person might mention, “I’ve been fighting my fears and working on self-improvement.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Keep fighting for your dreams, no matter how tough it gets.”

7. Strung out

This phrase is used to describe someone who is physically or emotionally drained, often as a result of prolonged struggle or hardship.

For instance, a person might say, “I’ve been working two jobs and I’m completely strung out.”
In a discussion about addiction, someone might mention, “He looks strung out from his drug use.”
A friend might express concern by saying, “You seem really strung out lately. Is everything okay?”

8. Coping

This term refers to the act of handling and adapting to challenging circumstances or emotions in order to maintain overall well-being.

For example, someone might say, “I’m coping with the loss of a loved one by attending therapy.”
In a discussion about stress, a person might mention, “I’ve been coping with work pressure by practicing mindfulness.”
A therapist might suggest coping strategies such as, “Try deep breathing exercises to help cope with anxiety.”

9. Treading water

This phrase is used to describe someone who is struggling to stay above water, both metaphorically and literally. It implies a sense of stagnation or lack of progress.

For instance, a person might say, “I’m just treading water in this dead-end job.”
In a discussion about finances, someone might mention, “With all my bills, I’m barely treading water.”
A friend might express frustration by saying, “I feel like I’m treading water in my relationship. Nothing ever changes.”

10. Barely scraping by

This phrase is used to describe someone who is barely able to survive or get by financially. It implies a sense of financial hardship and difficulty.

For example, someone might say, “I’m barely scraping by with my minimum wage job.”
In a discussion about living expenses, a person might mention, “Rent is so high that many people are barely scraping by.”
A financial advisor might offer tips on budgeting and saving by saying, “Even if you’re barely scraping by, there are ways to improve your financial situation.”

11. Hanging on by a thread

This phrase describes a situation where someone is barely managing to stay in control or survive. It implies that the person is facing extreme difficulty or hardship.

For example, “After losing his job, he’s hanging on by a thread financially.”
In a discussion about a struggling business, someone might say, “The company is hanging on by a thread, but we’re doing everything we can to turn things around.”
A person going through a tough time might express, “I feel like I’m hanging on by a thread right now, but I refuse to give up.”

12. In a bind

This phrase is used to describe being in a tight spot or facing a problem that is hard to solve. It suggests feeling trapped or stuck with limited options.

For instance, “I’m in a bind because I have two conflicting appointments at the same time.”
In a discussion about financial struggles, someone might say, “I’m in a bind and can’t afford to pay my bills this month.”
A person dealing with a challenging decision might say, “I’m in a bind because both options have serious consequences.”

13. Under pressure

This phrase describes the state of being under stress or facing intense demands. It suggests feeling the weight of expectations or experiencing a high level of stress.

For example, “She’s under pressure to meet the deadline for her project.”
In a discussion about sports, someone might say, “The team is under pressure to win this game and secure a spot in the playoffs.”
A person talking about work stress might say, “I’m constantly under pressure to perform at a high level.”

14. Up against it

This phrase is used to describe being in a challenging or tough situation. It suggests being confronted with obstacles or difficulties that need to be overcome.

For instance, “We’re up against it trying to finish this project before the deadline.”
In a discussion about a difficult task, someone might say, “I’m up against it trying to figure out a solution.”
A person talking about a tough competition might say, “Our team is up against it, but we’re determined to give it our all.”

15. Hard up

This phrase is used to describe being in a financially tight or difficult situation. It suggests having limited funds or struggling to make ends meet.

For example, “After losing his job, he’s hard up for money.”
In a discussion about personal finances, someone might say, “I’m hard up right now and can’t afford to go on vacation.”
A person talking about a difficult financial decision might say, “I’m hard up and need to find a way to save money.”

16. Living hand to mouth

This phrase describes a situation where someone is barely able to afford the essentials in life, such as food, housing, and bills. It implies living paycheck to paycheck and not having any financial security.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been living hand to mouth, just trying to make ends meet.”
A person might say, “I’ve been living hand to mouth for years, but I’m determined to improve my financial situation.”
In a conversation about poverty, someone might mention, “Many people in our society are forced to live hand to mouth due to low wages and high costs of living.”

17. Hanging by a thread

This phrase describes a situation where someone or something is in a precarious state, barely holding on and at risk of falling apart or failing. It conveys a sense of vulnerability and instability.

For instance, “After losing several major clients, the company is hanging by a thread and might have to close down.”
A person might say, “I’ve been dealing with health issues for months, and I feel like I’m hanging by a thread.”
In a discussion about a struggling relationship, someone might say, “Our marriage is hanging by a thread, and I’m not sure if we can save it.”

18. Pushing through

This phrase describes the act of continuing to move forward and make progress despite facing obstacles or difficulties. It conveys a sense of determination and resilience.

For example, “Even though I’m exhausted, I’m pushing through and studying for my final exams.”
A person might say, “I know the project is tough, but we just need to keep pushing through and we’ll get it done.”
In a conversation about personal struggles, someone might mention, “I’ve been dealing with a lot lately, but I’m pushing through and trying to stay positive.”

19. Weathering the storm

This phrase describes the act of enduring and surviving a challenging or turbulent period in life. It conveys a sense of resilience and the ability to withstand adversity.

For instance, “After losing my job and going through a divorce, I’m slowly weathering the storm and rebuilding my life.”
A person might say, “Life is tough right now, but I know I’ll get through it. I’m weathering the storm.”
In a discussion about overcoming obstacles, someone might mention, “We’ve faced many challenges as a team, but we’re weathering the storm and becoming stronger.”

20. Fighting an uphill battle

This phrase describes the act of facing and overcoming significant challenges or obstacles that seem almost impossible to conquer. It conveys a sense of an ongoing struggle and the need for perseverance.

For example, “As a small business owner, I feel like I’m constantly fighting an uphill battle against larger competitors.”
A person might say, “I’ve been fighting an uphill battle with my addiction, but I’m determined to overcome it.”
In a conversation about social justice issues, someone might mention, “Marginalized communities often have to fight an uphill battle for equality and justice.”

21. Feeling the financial squeeze

This phrase is used to describe the feeling of being financially constrained or stressed.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been feeling the financial squeeze.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m really feeling the financial squeeze this month.”
Someone might comment, “With rising costs and stagnant wages, many people are feeling the financial squeeze.”

22. Barely getting through

This phrase is used to describe the difficulty of managing or surviving with limited resources or support.

For instance, “I’m barely getting through each day with my current income.”
A person might express their struggle by saying, “I’m barely getting through this tough time.”
A friend might empathize and say, “I know you’re barely getting through, but things will get better.”

23. Making do

This phrase is used to describe the act of coping or getting by with limited resources or options.

For example, “We don’t have much, but we’re making do with what we have.”
A person might say, “I’m making do with the tools I have until I can afford better ones.”
Someone might advise, “Instead of buying new, try making do with what you already have.”

24. Scrounging for change

This phrase is used to describe the act of searching or seeking out small amounts of money, typically in a desperate or urgent manner.

For instance, “I’ve been scrounging for change to buy groceries this week.”
A person might say, “I’m tired of scrounging for change just to make ends meet.”
Someone might comment, “Scrounging for change is a reality for many people living in poverty.”

25. Struggling to make ends meet

This phrase is used to describe the challenge of earning enough money to meet one’s essential needs or financial obligations.

For example, “Even with a full-time job, I’m struggling to make ends meet.”
A person might express their frustration by saying, “I’m constantly struggling to make ends meet.”
Someone might empathize and say, “I understand the struggle of trying to make ends meet in today’s economy.”

26. Living on a shoestring

This phrase is used to describe someone who is struggling financially and has a very tight budget.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been living on a shoestring.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m on a shoestring budget right now.”
Someone might ask, “How do you manage to make ends meet while living on a shoestring?”

27. Fighting to stay afloat

This phrase is used to describe someone who is facing financial difficulties and is doing everything they can to survive or make ends meet.

For instance, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been fighting to stay afloat.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m barely making enough to pay my bills. It’s a constant fight to stay afloat.”
Someone might ask, “What are some strategies for fighting to stay afloat during tough times?”

28. Feeling the financial crunch

This phrase is used to describe someone who is feeling the effects of financial difficulties or pressure.

For example, “With all the bills piling up, I’m really feeling the financial crunch.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “The recession hit hard, and many people are feeling the financial crunch.”
Someone might ask, “How do you cope with feeling the financial crunch?”

29. Barely keeping your head above water

This phrase is used to describe someone who is barely managing to survive financially or stay out of debt.

For instance, “With all the bills and loans, I’m barely keeping my head above water.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m drowning in debt and just trying to keep my head above water.”
Someone might ask, “What are some strategies for staying afloat and barely keeping your head above water?”

30. Walking a financial tightrope

This phrase is used to describe someone who is in a precarious financial situation and is trying to balance their finances carefully.

For example, “With the high cost of living, I feel like I’m constantly walking a financial tightrope.”
A person discussing their financial situation might say, “I’m always one unexpected expense away from falling off the financial tightrope.”
Someone might ask, “How do you manage the stress of walking a financial tightrope?”

31. Scraping by

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is just barely able to make ends meet or survive financially. It implies that the person is struggling and living paycheck to paycheck.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been scraping by with odd jobs.”
A person might say, “I don’t have much money left at the end of the month. I’m just scraping by.”
In a discussion about financial difficulties, someone might mention, “I know what it’s like to scrape by. It’s tough.”

32. Making it through

This phrase is used to describe the act of successfully navigating or surviving a challenging or difficult situation. It implies that the person has faced obstacles but has managed to overcome them.

For instance, “I’ve had a tough week, but I’m making it through.”
A person might say, “Life can be tough, but we always find a way to make it through.”
In a discussion about personal struggles, someone might say, “I’ve faced a lot of challenges, but I keep making it through.”

33. Just scraping along

This phrase is similar to “scraping by” and is used to describe a situation where someone is barely able to get by or survive. It implies that the person is facing financial or other difficulties.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been just scraping along.”
A person might say, “Life hasn’t been easy, but I’m just scraping along.”
In a discussion about financial struggles, someone might mention, “I’m tired of just scraping along. I want a better life.”

34. Struggling to stay above water

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is facing numerous challenges and is fighting to survive or stay afloat. It implies that the person is in a difficult or precarious position.

For instance, “Ever since the company downsized, I’ve been struggling to stay above water.”
A person might say, “I’m overwhelmed with bills and responsibilities. I’m struggling to stay above water.”
In a discussion about personal hardships, someone might mention, “Life has thrown me a lot of curveballs, but I’m still struggling to stay above water.”

35. Living on the edge

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is living in a risky or precarious situation, often due to financial difficulties or other challenges. It implies that the person is constantly on the brink of facing serious consequences.

For example, “After losing my job, I’ve been living on the edge.”
A person might say, “I’m tired of living on the edge. I want some stability in my life.”
In a discussion about taking risks, someone might mention, “Living on the edge can be exhilarating, but it’s also stressful.”

36. Feeling the financial pinch

This phrase is used to describe the feeling of being financially stressed or strained.

For example, “Ever since I lost my job, I’ve been feeling the financial pinch.”
A person discussing their budget might say, “I’m feeling the financial pinch after unexpected medical bills.”
Someone might comment, “With rising living costs, many people are feeling the financial pinch these days.”

37. Going through tough times financially

This phrase is used to describe the experience of facing difficult financial circumstances.

For instance, “We’re going through tough times financially, so we need to cut back on expenses.”
A person discussing their struggles might say, “I’ve been going through tough times financially ever since I lost my job.”
Someone might comment, “It’s important to support each other when going through tough times financially.”

38. In a pickle

This phrase is used to describe being in a tricky or challenging situation, often with limited options or resources.

For example, “I’m in a pickle because I accidentally locked my keys in the car.”
A person discussing a dilemma might say, “I’m in a pickle – I have two job offers, but I can’t decide which one to choose.”
Someone might comment, “Being in a pickle can be stressful, but it often leads to creative problem-solving.”

39. In hot water

This phrase is used to describe being in a situation where one is facing trouble, difficulties, or negative consequences.

For instance, “I’m in hot water with my boss because I missed an important deadline.”
A person discussing a mistake might say, “I’m in hot water with my parents after crashing their car.”
Someone might comment, “When you’re in hot water, it’s important to take responsibility and find a solution.”

40. Between a rock and a hard place

This phrase is used to describe being in a situation where one is faced with two equally challenging options or choices.

For example, “I’m between a rock and a hard place – I can either pay my rent or buy groceries.”
A person discussing a tough decision might say, “I’m between a rock and a hard place – I have to choose between staying in a job I hate or taking a risk with a new opportunity.”
Someone might comment, “Being between a rock and a hard place can be incredibly stressful, but it often leads to personal growth and resilience.”

41. Out of luck

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone has no luck or has run out of luck.

For example, “I’ve been applying for jobs for months and still haven’t gotten an offer. I’m completely out of luck.”
Another example would be, “I lost my wallet and my phone on the same day. I guess I’m just out of luck.”
Someone might say, “I was hoping to win the lottery, but I didn’t even get a single number. I guess I’m out of luck.”

42. Pushing the envelope

This phrase is used to describe someone who is pushing the limits or boundaries of what is considered acceptable or possible.

For instance, “The artist’s new exhibit really pushes the envelope of traditional art.”
Another example would be, “The company is pushing the envelope with their innovative new product.”
Someone might say, “I want to try something different and push the envelope in my career.”

43. Slogging through

This phrase is used to describe the act of struggling or making slow progress through something difficult or challenging.

For example, “I’ve been slogging through this report all day and I’m still not finished.”
Another example would be, “The hiker slogged through the muddy trail for hours.”
Someone might say, “I’m slogging through this math problem and I just can’t figure it out.”

44. Grasping at straws

This phrase is used to describe someone who is desperately searching for a solution or hope in a difficult situation, even if the chances of success are slim.

For instance, “After months of unsuccessful job applications, he’s grasping at straws and applying for any position he can find.”
Another example would be, “The politician’s explanation for the scandal seemed like grasping at straws.”
Someone might say, “I’m grasping at straws trying to figure out how to fix my car.”

45. In the weeds

This phrase is used to describe someone who is overwhelmed or bogged down with work or problems.

For example, “I’m really in the weeds with this project. I have so much to do and not enough time.”
Another example would be, “The restaurant was understaffed and the servers were in the weeds all night.”
Someone might say, “I’m feeling really stressed and in the weeds with all of my responsibilities right now.”

46. Pushing through the grind

This phrase refers to the act of persevering through a challenging or monotonous task. It often implies that the work is physically or mentally demanding.

For example, a person might say, “I’m tired, but I just have to keep pushing through the grind until the project is finished.”
In a conversation about studying for exams, someone might say, “It’s tough, but we have to push through the grind to achieve our goals.”
A person discussing their job might say, “Some days, it feels like I’m just pushing through the grind and waiting for the weekend.”

47. Scraping the bottom of the barrel

This phrase describes the act of using the last available options or resources, often when in a desperate situation or facing limited choices.

For instance, someone might say, “I’ve tried everything else, so now I’m scraping the bottom of the barrel for a solution.”
In a discussion about fundraising, a person might say, “We’ve exhausted all our usual donors, so we’re scraping the bottom of the barrel to find new supporters.”
A person describing their financial situation might say, “I’m really struggling financially and have been scraping the bottom of the barrel to pay my bills.”

48. Barely making ends meet

This phrase describes a situation in which a person’s income is just sufficient to cover their basic needs and expenses, often with little or no money left over.

For example, someone might say, “I’m barely making ends meet with my current salary. I can’t afford any extras.”
In a conversation about budgeting, a person might say, “I have to be really careful with my spending because I’m barely making ends meet.”
A person discussing their financial struggles might say, “With the rising cost of living, many people are finding it difficult to barely make ends meet.”

49. Holding on for dear life

This phrase describes the act of gripping or holding onto something tightly and desperately, often to survive or endure a difficult or dangerous situation.

For instance, someone might say, “I was hanging onto the edge of the cliff for dear life until help arrived.”
In a conversation about a turbulent flight, a person might say, “I was holding on for dear life during that rough landing.”
A person describing their struggle with a serious illness might say, “There were moments when I felt like I was holding on for dear life, fighting to survive.”

50. Struggling to keep afloat

This phrase describes the act of facing difficulties or challenges and barely managing to survive or stay above water, both figuratively and literally.

For example, someone might say, “With the current economic situation, many small businesses are struggling to keep afloat.”
In a conversation about balancing work and personal life, a person might say, “I feel like I’m constantly struggling to keep afloat and maintain some semblance of balance.”
A person discussing their mental health might say, “Some days, it feels like I’m just struggling to keep afloat and not drown in my own thoughts.”