1. Adverb (fukushi), Noun

   with trouble; at great pains

   Usually written using kana alone

   せっかくの苦労もあだになった。

2. Noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'

   rare; valuable; precious; long-awaited

   Usually written using kana alone

3. kind; generous

   Usually written using kana alone

Also written 切角【せっかく】sekkaku