He learned how to run a business in the school of hard knocks.
school of hard knocks
idiomThe source of an education consisting of real-world experiences, especially adverse experiences.
She never finished college, but she gained plenty of wisdom from the school of hard knocks while working in the city.
His pragmatic approach to leadership was not forged in a classroom, but rather through the school of hard knocks during his years of navigating difficult economic crises.
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bone hard
As hard as a bone, rock hard.
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cold hard cash
Money, regarded as an incentive that can override any doubts or ethical concerns.
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die hard
Of a living being, to die only after a desperate struggle for life.
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don't knock yourself out
Don't overexert yourself (in doing something that does not require much effort).
- 05
drive a hard bargain
To negotiate forcefully.
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give someone a hard time
To cause difficulty or make trouble for someone.
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go hard with someone
To lead to someone suffering; to place someone in difficulty or danger.
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hard as nails
Very unsympathetic; callous
Last updated April 17, 2026