struggle

an energetic attempt to achieve something; "getting through the crowd was a real struggle"; "he fought a battle for recognition"

an open clash between two opposing groups (or individuals); "the harder the conflict the more glorious the triumph"--Thomas Paine; "police tried to control the battle between the pro- and anti-abortion mobs"

strenuous effort; "the struggle to get through the crowd exhausted her"

make a strenuous or labored effort; "She struggled for years to survive without welfare"; "He fought for breath"

to exert strenuous effort against opposition; "he struggled to get free from the rope"

climb awkwardly, as if by scrambling

be engaged in a fight; carry on a fight; "the tribesmen fought each other"; "Siblings are always fighting"; "Militant groups are contending for control of the country"