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REFERENCE

hell or high water

idiom
Meaning

Highly adverse circumstances; acts of God.


Examples
SIMPLE

I will finish this project, come hell or high water.

CONTEXTUAL

She promised to attend her sister's wedding, hell or high water, despite the massive storm canceling all flights.

COMPLEX

Determined to preserve the family estate, he vowed to defend the property against the encroaching developers, hell or high water.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    blood in the water

    In a competitive situation, the exhibition of apparent weakness or vulnerability by one party, especially when this leads to a feeling of vulnerability or greater pressure to perform on the part of the weak party, or enhanced expectation of victory by the others.

  3. 03

    blood is thicker than water

    Family relations and loyalties are stronger than relationships with people who are not family members.

  4. 04

    blow out of the water

    To trounce; to defeat thoroughly, as at a game or in battle.

  5. 05

    carbonated water

    Water that contains carbon dioxide dissolved in it under pressure and is intended for drinking.

  6. 06

    carry someone's water

    To do someone's bidding; to serve someone's interests.

  7. 07

    carry water for

    To perform menial tasks for; to serve; to assist; to be forced by politics or pragmatism to endorse or promote a belief, individual, or organization that in reality one does not fully support.

  8. 08

    catch hell

    To be severely reprimanded, punished, or beaten.

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