This old car can take a licking and keep on ticking.
take a licking and keep on ticking
idiomTo be tough; to have endurance; to have the capacity to absorb stress or damage, but still be able to function.
Origin
disputed originDerived from the advertising slogan for Timex wrist-watches.
Even after the heavy storm damaged the roof, the sturdy house managed to take a licking and keep on ticking.
Despite the relentless economic pressures and repeated setbacks, the small business proved it could take a licking and keep on ticking through sheer persistence.
- 01
clock is ticking
Time is running out; a deadline is approaching.
- 02
cobbler, keep to your last
One should not criticise matters outside one's field of expertise; one should mind one's business.
- 03
cross to take up
Alternative form of cross to bear.
- 04
earn one's keep
To perform satisfactory physical labor or to provide other worthy services in return for remuneration, lodging, or other benefits; to support oneself financially.
- 05
forget to take one's medication this morning
To be annoyed or irritable, or to behave in an ill-mannered way, particularly in the morning.
- 06
give and take
A process of compromise or accommodation.
- 07
give someone an inch and someone will take a mile
Alternative form of give them an inch and they'll take a mile.
- 08
I take it
Used to express one's understanding of another's position.