die Widrigkeit, -en

The German word "Widrigkeit" is a feminine noun meaning "adversity," "difficulty," or "hardship."

• It is derived from the adjective "widrig," which means "adverse," "unfavorable," or "hostile."
• The suffix "-keit" forms a noun that expresses a state or quality, so "Widrigkeit" denotes the state of being adverse or unfavorable.

Similar words:

• "Schwierigkeit" (difficulty)
• "Hindernis" (obstacle)
• "Misslichkeit" (misery, hardship)
• "Unbill" (injustice, unfair condition)

Differences:

• "Widrigkeit" emphasizes external unfavorable conditions or obstacles mostly in a broad or natural sense (e.g., weather).
• "Schwierigkeit" is more about specific difficulties or challenges.
• "Hindernis" refers more specifically to physical or figurative obstacles blocking progress.
• "Misslichkeit" focuses more on unfortunate or distressing situations.
• "Unbill" addresses unfairness or injustice rather than mere adversity.