What does “Tough row to hoe” mean?

"Tough row to hoe" means a task or challenge that is difficult to accomplish.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Starting a new business is definitely a tough row to hoe.

Example

Getting through medical school is a tough row to hoe.

Example

Raising three kids on your own can be a tough row to hoe

Is “Tough row to hoe” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Tough row to hoe” 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 “Tough row to hoe” effectively in context?

You can use "Tough row to hoe" to describe a difficult task or challenge. It emphasizes the level of effort and perseverance required to overcome obstacles. For example, if someone is starting a new business, you might say, 'Starting a new business is definitely a tough row to hoe.'

1Entrepreneurship
Starting a new business is definitely a tough row to hoe.
2Education
Getting through medical school is a tough row to hoe.
3Single Parenting
Raising three kids on your own can be a tough row to hoe.

Similar phrases to “Tough row to hoe”:

Uphill battle

A difficult struggle or challenge

Example

Getting the promotion was an uphill battle, but she didn't give up.

Sisyphean task

A task that is never-ending or impossible to complete

Example

Trying to clean up after the party felt like a Sisyphean task.

Mountain to climb

A difficult or challenging task that requires a lot of effort

Example

Learning a new language can feel like a mountain to climb.

Hard nut to crack

A difficult problem or challenge that is hard to solve

Example

Figuring out the solution to the puzzle was a hard nut to crack.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Tough row to hoe” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Tough row to hoe" is unknown.

Is “Tough row to hoe” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Tough row to hoe" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe challenging situations or tasks that require a lot of effort and perseverance.

What tone does “Tough row to hoe” have?

"Tough row to hoe" conveys a tone of acknowledging the difficulty of a situation. It recognizes the challenges and hard work involved in overcoming obstacles.

Can “Tough row to hoe” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Tough row to hoe" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes difficult tasks or challenges. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Starting a new business is definitely a tough row to hoe.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's a tough row to hoe!' to imply the difficulty of a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

challenging task
difficult endeavor
arduous journey
demanding mission
herculean effort