swallow a bitter pill

bitter end

The end of a long and difficult process.

hard to swallow

Difficult to accept; hard to acquiesce to.

horse pill

A medicinal pill which is very large in size and is therefore difficult for a person to swallow.

pill in the pocket

A medication, usually prescribed by a physician, which the patient is to carry with them, and which is to be used only under certain conditions.

pill mill

A clandestine operation where a medical worker illicitly offers prescription medication to patients in exchange for bribes.

sugarcoat the pill

To make an unpleasant event less displeasing.

swallow one's pride

To set aside one's feelings of pride and adopt a more humble or appropriate stance.

swallow the dictionary

To speak using long or obscure words.