hassle

Everyday

1. (informal) Something annoying and difficult that takes effort: getting the bus is such a hassle. tree →
2. (informal) Trouble or arguing: I don't want any hassle. tree →
3. (verb, informal) To keep annoying someone or asking them to do something: stop hassling me about my homework. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday talk «hassle» describes boring chores, queues, forms and travel problems, and nagging or pestering. In stories it shows a character being bothered or bullied. Safety: if someone keeps hassling you online or in the street, tell a trusted adult. Phrases: such a hassle, no hassle, hassle-free, hassle someone about.

Examples

• Packing for the trip was a real hassle. tree →
• It's no hassle, I'll drive you to school. tree →
• Stop hassling your sister! tree →
• The older kids were hassling us for our sweets. tree →
• Online shopping is meant to be hassle-free. tree →
• Mum hassled me to tidy my room all weekend. tree →
• I don't want any hassle, I just want to play. tree →

Note

Informal word. Spelling: double s. Can be countable (a hassle) or uncountable (too much hassle). Being hassled repeatedly can be bullying or harassment, which is serious.