He has been through the mill lately with his health.
through the mill
idiomThrough a period of bad treatment or an ordeal.
After working three jobs to pay off his debts, he has really been through the mill.
Having been through the mill during the long and difficult legal battle, the family finally sought a quiet life away from the public eye.
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go through the mill
To experience the suffering or discipline necessary to bring one to a certain degree of knowledge or skill, or to a certain mental state.
- 02
grist for the mill
Something that is useful or that creates a favorable opportunity.
- 03
grist to the mill
Alternative form of grist for the mill.
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pill mill
A clandestine operation where a medical worker illicitly offers prescription medication to patients in exchange for bribes.
- 05
rumor mill
A process in which a group or network of persons originate or promulgate gossip and other unsubstantiated claims.
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trouble at mill
Problems outside the household, especially in the workplace.
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water to one's mill
That which energizes or stimulates one.