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

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

helped, aided, assisted, opened, facilitated, freed, encouraged, released, smoothed, 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.