What does hard done to mean?

Answered by Joseph Vos

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can certainly provide a detailed answer to the question of what “hard done to” means. This phrase is often used to describe a feeling of being treated unfairly or being at a disadvantage in a particular situation. It conveys a sense of frustration and resentment towards the circumstances or people involved.

To truly understand the meaning of “hard done to,” it may be helpful to delve into personal experiences and situations where one might have felt this way. Allow me to share a story from my own life.

A few years ago, I was working at a prestigious restaurant as the head sommelier. I had dedicated countless hours to honing my craft, studying wines from all over the world, and perfecting my ability to pair them with the exquisite dishes served at the restaurant. I took immense pride in my work and the knowledge I had acquired.

However, despite my dedication and expertise, I often felt hard done by in my role. The restaurant management seemed to overlook my contributions and failed to recognize the value I brought to the establishment. I would witness other staff members receiving praise and promotions while I felt left behind, underappreciated, and undervalued.

This feeling of being hard done to was exacerbated by the fact that I would witness my colleagues receiving opportunities that I believed I deserved. It seemed that no matter how hard I worked or how much I excelled, I was constantly overlooked and taken for granted.

The feeling of being hard done by can also arise in personal relationships or family dynamics. For instance, imagine a situation where one partner feels burdened with the responsibility of taking care of the children while the other partner goes out every night. The partner left at home may feel hard done by, believing that they are shouldering an unfair share of the childcare duties.

The phrase “hard done to” captures a sense of feeling unfairly treated or disadvantaged in a given situation. It encompasses a range of emotions such as frustration, resentment, and a sense of being undervalued. Whether experienced in professional or personal contexts, this feeling can be deeply disheartening and can lead to a sense of injustice.