What does “School Of Hard Knocks” mean?
"School Of Hard Knocks" means learning through difficult or challenging experiences, often outside of a formal educational setting.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He didn't go to college, but he graduated from the School of Hard Knocks.
Example
She learned everything she knows about business from the School of Hard Knocks.
Example
Life has taught him many lessons from the School of Hard Knocks
Is “School Of Hard Knocks” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“School Of Hard Knocks” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “School Of Hard Knocks” effectively in context?
You can use "School of Hard Knocks" to describe someone's education or learning experience that has been gained through difficult or challenging experiences, rather than through formal education. For example, if someone didn't go to college but has acquired valuable skills and knowledge through real-life experiences, you might say, 'He didn't go to college, but he graduated from the School of Hard Knocks.'
- 1Personal Growth
After facing numerous setbacks and failures, she learned valuable life lessons from the School of Hard Knocks.
- 2Career
Without a formal degree, he built a successful business through the School of Hard Knocks.
- 3Life Experience
Having grown up in a challenging environment, he gained wisdom from the School of Hard Knocks.
Similar phrases to “School Of Hard Knocks”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “School Of Hard Knocks” come from?
The origin of the phrase "School of Hard Knocks" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and is often attributed to American boxer and writer Damon Runyon, who used the phrase in his writings.
Is “School Of Hard Knocks” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "School of Hard Knocks" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to acknowledge and appreciate the knowledge and skills gained through difficult life experiences.
What tone does “School Of Hard Knocks” have?
"School of Hard Knocks" conveys a tone of resilience and resourcefulness. It is often used to recognize the strength and determination of individuals who have overcome challenges and learned valuable lessons through their experiences.
Can “School Of Hard Knocks” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "School of Hard Knocks" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal contexts to emphasize the value of practical experience over formal education.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He learned everything he knows about business from the School of Hard Knocks.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I've been through the School of Hard Knocks' to imply a history of challenging experiences.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- life's tough lessons
- real-world education
- street smarts
- hands-on learning
- experience-based knowledge
Antonyms
- formal education
- academic learning
- textbook knowledge
- classroom instruction
- theoretical understanding
