the 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.

Bordeaux have now won 16 consecutive Champions Cup matches across two campaigns, but had to do it the hard way this season.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

We should banish it, because I’ve learned the hard way that it’s too abstract.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

As we learned the hard way during the Covid pandemic, just-in-time manufacturing is a boon—until the supply chains collapse.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

That should alarm Arab leaders, who have learned the hard way that the price of bread is closely tied to the price of stability.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Even Father learned that one the hard way.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver