English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
When the going gets tough, the tough get going
Meaning
The idiom "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" means that when a situation becomes difficult or challenging, people who are tough or strong-willed will rise to the occasion and take action. It suggests that tough times call for tough measures, and those who are capable of facing adversity will step up and handle the situation with determination and courage.
Usage
- When the going gets tough in my job, I buckle down and focus on delivering results.
- The team's morale stayed high even when the going got tough during the game.
- When the going gets tough, the tough get going - that's the philosophy of successful entrepreneurs.
- In times of war, the toughest soldiers rise to the challenge and lead the charge.
- The tougher the task, the more determined I am to succeed. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a positive or negative way depending on the situation. For example, it can be used to motivate someone who is struggling with a difficult task or situation, or it can be used to criticize someone who is not handling the situation well.
Roots and History
The idiom "when the going gets tough, the tough get going" dates back to the 16th century, where it first appeared in print in 1589. The phrase was originally used in a poem by William Kyd, who wrote, "To do his best he did, when fortune smote him on the head." Over time, the idiom has evolved to mean what it means today.
Synonyms in English
- When times get tough, the strong survive.
- In difficult situations, the strong prevail.
- The tough cut through adversity.
- During tough times, the resilient overcome challenges.
- Tough people rise to the occasion.
Synonyms in other languages
- En la dificultad, los fuertes se ganan (Spanish) - When difficulty arises, the strong prevail.
- 壮麗人士在艰苦時伸展力量 (Mandarin Chinese) - Tough people reveal their strength in difficult times.
- 強調人士在艰苦時表達力量 (Mandarin Chinese) - Strong people express their strength during tough times.
- 當困難時，雄心者攝取勝利 (Japanese) - When times are tough, the brave capture victory.
- 在艰苦時，強調人士會發展力量 (Chinese) - During difficult times, the strong develop their strength.