gave a hard time (Meaning)

gave a hard time

to criticize or annoy someone

The stubborn child gave his parents a hard time while getting ready for school.
The detective's interrogation techniques gave the suspect a hard time, eventually leading to a confession.
The complex math problem gave even the brightest student a hard time.
The intense physical training gave the recruits a hard time, but they persevered.
The new teacher gave the students a hard time at first, but they eventually adjusted to her style.
The difficult work environment gave the employees a hard time, causing high turnover rates.
The financial crisis gave many families a hard time, forcing them to make sacrifices.
The natural disaster gave the volunteers a hard time as they struggled to provide aid to those affected.
The break-up gave both partners a hard time, leaving them heartbroken and lost.
The bully gave the smaller child a hard time at school, making their life miserable.

to criticize or annoy someone

hindered, held back, interfered (with), handicapped, embarrassed, hampered, obstructed, tied up,impeded, hog-tied

helped, aided, assisted, facilitated, opened, untied,cleared, liberated, encouraged, made way

The stubborn child gave his parents a hard time while getting ready for school.

The detective's interrogation techniques gave the suspect a hard time, eventually leading to a confession.

The complex math problem gave even the brightest student a hard time.

The intense physical training gave the recruits a hard time, but they persevered.