How to Pronounce "give a hard time"
expression
GIV-uh HARD-TIME
GIV-uh HAHD-TIME
Definition
To make things difficult for someone either by teasing, criticizing, or being strict. It can mean jokingly bothering a friend or truly causing trouble for someone.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɡɪv/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈhɑɹd/ /ˈtaɪm
British English
ɡˈɪv/ /æɪ/ /hˈɑːd/ /tˈaɪm
Simplified Pronunciation
US
GIV-uh HARD-TIME
UK
GIV-uh HAHD-TIME
Listen in Context
My friends always give me a hard time when I am late.
The teacher gave him a hard time about his messy homework.
Please don’t give your sister a hard time today.
Relax, I’m just giving you a hard time!