a tough/hard row to hoe

noun phrase

: something that is difficult to do or deal with
I am considering becoming a doctor, but I know that it's a tough row to hoe.

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Opener Gordie Brown had a tough row to hoe, with an audience eager for the main event. Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel, 18 Jan. 2023 The new director of the nation's top public health institute is looking at a tough row to hoe. Star Tribune, 14 Feb. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'a tough/hard row to hoe.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Dictionary Entries Near a tough/hard row to hoe

a touch of

a tough/hard row to hoe

atour

Cite this Entry

“A tough/hard row to hoe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/a%20tough%2Fhard%20row%20to%20hoe. Accessed 29 May. 2023.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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