adjective in difficult circumstances; lacking money or resources
adverb in a difficult or desperate situation
When someone is experiencing financial difficulties or is in need of money, they may be described as hard up.
In the field of economics, hard up can be used to describe a situation where there is a shortage or lack of resources.
Social workers may use the term hard up to refer to individuals or families who are struggling to meet their basic needs.
In informal language, hard up can also be used to describe someone who is lacking something, such as resources or opportunities.
In a professional context, a writer might use 'hard up' to describe a character in a story who is experiencing financial difficulties or to convey a sense of desperation in a particular situation.
A psychologist may use 'hard up' when discussing the financial struggles of a client and how it may be impacting their mental health or overall well-being.
A financial analyst may use 'hard up' to describe a company that is facing financial challenges or to discuss the financial difficulties of a particular industry.
A human resources manager might use 'hard up' when discussing employee benefits or compensation packages, particularly in relation to employees who may be struggling financially.