What's another word for 'a rough life'?

A Journey through the School of Hard Knocks

Experiencing a 'rough life' can be termed as going through the school of hard knocks. It's a metaphorical school where life's harsh lessons are learned. The trials and tribulations faced in this school are often severe, teaching us resilience and perseverance. These experiences are the building blocks that shape our character and mold us into who we become. Like actual schools, the school of hard knocks can be a place of growth, teaching us lessons we might not learn otherwise. Therefore, when we say someone has had a rough life, we might also say they are a graduate from the school of hard knocks.

Surviving the Storms of Life

Another way to describe a rough life is by saying one has survived the storms of life. Storms symbolize the difficulties and challenges one faces. Surviving these storms signifies resilience, strength, and the will to keep going despite the odds. It means that one has weathered the harsh realities of life and has emerged victorious, if not unscathed. These storms can sometimes be relentless, but they shape us and make us stronger. So, when we talk about someone having a rough life, we can also say they have survived the storms of life.

Walking through the Valley of Shadows

When we say someone has walked through the valley of shadows, we refer to a person who has endured a rough life. This phrase, borrowed from the Bible, signifies a journey through dark times or adversity. It suggests a life marked by trials, tribulations, and hardship. Just like walking through an actual valley of shadows can be intimidating and challenging, so can living through difficult life circumstances. However, just as a valley has an end, so do life's challenges. They are but a part of the journey, not the destination.

Living on the Edge

'Living on the edge' is another phrase we commonly use to describe a rough life. It signifies a life filled with uncertainty and instability. Such a life can be both exciting and terrifying, as one has to constantly adapt to survive. Living on the edge means living with the unknown - not knowing what tomorrow may bring and yet having the courage to face it. It teaches one to be resourceful and resilient. So, when we talk about someone having had a rough life, we can also say they have been living on the edge.

Struggling Against the Current

Imagine swimming against a strong current. It's exhausting, isn't it? This imagery is often used to depict a rough life. Just like a swimmer struggles against the current, people with difficult lives often struggle against numerous challenges that seem to push them back. But, as they say, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. These struggles may be tough, but they make us resilient and teach us to keep going, no matter what. Therefore, when we say someone has had a rough life, we might also say they have been struggling against the current.

Walking on Thin Ice

Another metaphor for a rough life is 'walking on thin ice'. This signifies a life full of risks and dangers where a wrong step could lead to disaster. People who walk on thin ice live in constant fear and anxiety, always on the lookout for danger. They have to tread carefully, always aware of the risks that come with their decisions. However, these experiences teach them to be cautious and prudent, preparing them for future challenges. So, when we say someone has had a rough life, we can also say they have been walking on thin ice.

Scaling the Mountain of Adversity

Lastly, 'scaling the mountain of adversity' is another term we use to describe a rough life. Just like climbing a mountain, living through a difficult life requires strength, perseverance, and determination. Every step is a challenge, but every challenge overcome is a step closer to the summit. The journey may be tough, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile. Thus, when we talk about someone having a rough life, we can also say they have been scaling the mountain of adversity.