1.
trial, ordeal, test, tribulation
A difficult experience or hardship that tests a person's character, abilities, or endurance. Implies that the difficulty serves as a means of growth or proving oneself.
これは大きな試練だ。
This is a great trial.
試練を乗り越えて強くなった。
I became stronger by overcoming the ordeal.
人生には様々な試練が待ち受けているが、それが人を成長させる。
Various trials await us in life, but they are what help us grow.
USAGE:
試練 implies that hardship has a purpose — testing and strengthening the person who endures it. It is more positive in connotation than 苦難 (suffering) or 困難 (difficulty), as it suggests growth through adversity. Often used in motivational or reflective contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 試練を乗り越える: to overcome a trial
- 試練に立ち向かう: to face an ordeal
- 試練に耐える: to endure a trial
- 厳しい試練: a harsh ordeal