when the going gets tough
phrase
: when it becomes difficult to continue or to make progress
What will you do when the going gets tough?
Cite this Entry
“When the going gets tough.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/when%20the%20going%20gets%20tough. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
