hard way

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Misiorowski learned that lesson the hard way as a rookie last season, when poor command led to a stretch where he posted a 5.48 ERA over 11 starts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Like Joe Fernandez, these exonerees learned the hard way that the appellate system is not designed for them.

From Slate • May 29, 2026

The U.S. is learning this the hard way.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Some will say Arteta's side have got here the hard way, while others will argue victories secured when a team does just enough to get over the line is the mark of champions.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

I knew she wanted to be an architect someday, but I’d learned the hard way not to ask what she was working on.

From "The Last Olympian" by Rick Riordan