Spanish -

How To Say "Hard" In Spanish

Learning a new language can be a challenging task, but with some guidance, it becomes an exciting journey. One of the most common questions beginners have when learning Spanish is how to say "hard" in Spanish. In this article, we will explore the meaning of "hard" in Spanish, translate it into Spanish, and provide you with five Spanish to English sample sentences on how to say "hard" in Spanish.

Fast track your vocabulary with the 10.000 most common Spanish words!

What is "Hard" in Spanish?

The word "hard" can be translated into Spanish in several ways, depending on the context and the regional dialect. The most common translations are:

  • Duro (IPA: /ˈdu.ɾo/)
  • Fuerte (IPA: /ˈfweɾ.te/)
  • Difícil (IPA: /diˈfi.sil/)
  • Resistente (IPA: /re.sisˈten.te/)
  • Pesado (IPA: /pe.ˈsa.ðo/)

Each of these words has its own nuances and connotations, which we will explain in detail below.

Meaning of “Hard” in Spanish

  • Duro: This is the most straightforward translation of "hard" in Spanish. It refers to something that is physically hard or tough, such as a rock or a wooden board. In colloquial language, it can also mean something that is difficult to endure or bear, as in "trabajar duro" (To work hard).
  • Fuerte: This word has a broader meaning than "duro". It can refer to something that is physically strong, as well as to abstract concepts such as emotions or personality traits. For instance, "un fuerte abrazo" (A strong hug.) or "una personalidad fuerte" (A strong personality.)
  • Difícil: This word means "difficult" or "challenging". It is often used to describe tasks or situations that require effort or skill, as in "un examen difícil" (A difficult exam.) or "una decisión difícil" (A difficult decision.)
  • Resistente: This word refers to something that is resistant or durable, such as a material or a structure. It can also be used metaphorically to describe people who are resilient or tough, as in "un cuerpo resistente" (A resilient body.)
  • Pesado: This word has several meanings in Spanish, but in the context of "hard", it can refer to something that is heavy or burdensome. For example, "una carga pesada" (A heavy burden.) or "un trabajo pesado" (A heavy job.)

4 eBooks of the Spanish Frequency Dictionaries series by MostUsedWords

Regional References

As with many Spanish words, the pronunciation and usage of "duro" can vary from region to region. For example, in Argentina and Uruguay, the word "duro" is sometimes used as a slang term for a one-peso coin, so be careful not to use it in that context if you are traveling in those countries!

In some regions of Spain, such as Andalusia, the pronunciation of "duro" can sound more like "duero" with a slightly extended "e" sound at the end. Additionally, in certain Latin American countries, such as Mexico, the word "duro" can also be used to describe something that's cool or impressive, as in ¡Qué duro está ese coche! (That car looks really cool!).

You can find the paperbacks on Amazon (we have frequency dictionaries for beginnersintermediatesadvanced and near-fluent students), or get the eBooks directly from us here. (They are affiliate links. That means we might get a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking these links, at no extra cost to you.) 

How to Say "Hard" in Spanish: Sample Sentences

Here are five sample sentences you can use to say "hard" in Spanish:

  • La madera es muy dura.

(The wood is very hard.)

  • Es difícil aprender un nuevo idioma.

(It's hard to learn a new language.)

  • Trabajé duro para terminar el proyecto.

(I worked hard to finish the project.)

  • Es una decisión muy dura de tomar.

(It's a very hard decision to make.)

  • Necesitas ser un trabajador duro para tener éxito en la vida.

(You need to be a hard worker to succeed in life.)

Conclusion

In conclusion, "duro" is the most common translation for "hard" in Spanish, but there are other words that can be used depending on the context. Keep in mind that there are also regional variations, so it is always a good idea to check with a native speaker if you are not sure which word to use. Practice using these words in context, and you will be well on your way to speaking Spanish like a pro!


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published