HARD UP Meaning and
Definition
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The term "hard up" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation when an individual or a group of people are experiencing financial hardship or lack of money. It refers to a state of being in financial difficulties, struggling to make ends meet, or facing a shortage of funds to cover basic needs and expenses. This phrase is often used to depict a condition of financial constraint or poverty.
To be "hard up" implies that a person or a household has limited resources or income, resulting in an inability to afford desired or necessary items, activities, or even essential provisions like food, shelter, and clothing. This state of financial strain can arise due to various factors, such as unemployment, low-paying jobs, significant debts, unexpected expenses, or other financial challenges.
The expression "hard up" can also be used figuratively to suggest a situation beyond mere financial constraints, indicating a state of need or difficulty concerning other aspects of life. For instance, one can be described as "hard up for time" or "hard up for solutions," meaning that they are lacking sufficient time or viable solutions, respectively.
The term "hard up" is colloquial and widely used in informal contexts. Its usage is common in both spoken and written English, ranging from everyday conversations to literature. It is important to note that the term carries a negative connotation, often emphasizing the struggle and adversity faced by individuals in challenging financial circumstances.
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In familiar language, without money or resources; in extremity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HARD UP
- gard up
- nard up
- jard up
- uard up
- yard up
- hzrd up
- hsrd up
- hwrd up
- hqrd up
- haed up
- hadd up
- hafd up
- hatd up
- ha5d up
- ha4d up
- hars up
- harx up
- harc up
- harf up
Etymology of HARD UP
The phrase "hard up" originated in 19th-century England. The word "hard" in this context means difficult or challenging, while "up" refers to an elevated or improved state. When combined, "hard up" implies a situation where one is experiencing financial difficulties, indicating a struggle to make ends meet. The word "up" adds a sense of striving or hoping for improvement. Over time, it came to be used figuratively to describe any situation where someone is lacking resources or facing hardship.
Idioms with the word HARD UP
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be hard up (for sth)
The idiom "be hard up (for sth)" means to be lacking or in need of something, usually money or resources. It suggests a state of financial or material difficulty and scarcity.
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be hard up
The idiom "be hard up" means to be in a difficult financial situation or to lack money or resources to fulfill one's needs or desires.
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hard up (for sth)
The idiom "hard up (for sth)" means to be in a difficult financial situation or lacking something essential, usually money or resources. It implies struggling to meet one's needs or desires due to a lack of sufficient funds or resources.
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hard up (for something)
The idiom "hard up (for something)" means to be in a situation where you lack or are in desperate need of something, usually referring to money or resources. It can also imply being in a difficult or challenging position where one is struggling to cope with a particular situation.
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be hard up for something
The idiom "be hard up for something" means to have a scarcity, lack, or shortage of something, especially money or resources. It is typically used to convey a state of financial difficulty or a need for something that is in short supply.
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hard up
"Hard up" is an idiom used to describe someone who is in a difficult financial situation and experiencing financial hardship or lacking enough money or resources.
Similar spelling words for HARD UP
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