hard

adjective /hɑːrd/

Requiring great effort or endurance; difficult.

Quick answer

Common synonyms for "hard" include difficult, challenging, tough, demanding, arduous, strenuous. Choose by context — see groups below.

Synonyms for "hard"

hard — difficult

difficultchallengingtoughdemandingarduousstrenuous

hard — firm or solid

firmsolidrigiddense

hard — harsh or severe

harshseverestrictstern

Antonyms for "hard"

easysimplesoftgentle

Examples in context

  • It was a hard decision to make.
  • She had a hard week and needs the weekend.
  • Compliance is hard to get right at scale.
Usage note

Match the friction: demanding (workload), arduous (long), tough (resilience needed), harsh (cruel).