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hard times

  • plural
    of hard time.
    hard time
    noun
    a period of difficulties or hardship.

Example Sentences

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When selecting individual stocks, some investors look for quality and lower risk, while others want to scoop up shares of companies that have fallen on hard times, hoping to ride a rebound.

From MarketWatch Aug. 26, 2026

For our ancient ancestors, this meant that if weight was lost in hard times, their bodies would be able to “get back” to their usual weight during better times.

From Science Daily Aug. 4, 2026

"As you know, I'm not one to shy away from documenting the hard times as well as the good times, and this one's a low point sadly."

From BBC Jul. 2, 2026

May’s ambitions are now to rebuild a professional franchise that has fallen on hard times.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 22, 2026

But I’ve kind of fallen on hard times lately, and I could use a little hand up, if you know what I mean.”

From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool