School of hard knocks Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Learning through difficult real-life experiences rather than formal education. It refers to gaining wisdom by facing and overcoming hardships.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is informal and often used with pride to indicate practical, real-world experience. Common collocation: "graduate from the school of hard knocks" (meaning learned through difficulties). Not actually a real school.
Example Sentences
He learned everything from the school of hard knocks.
basic
She graduated from the school of hard knocks, not from college.
basic
Many people say the school of hard knocks taught them important lessons.
basic
You can tell he’s been through the school of hard knocks—he’s really street-smart.
natural
My parents believe the school of hard knocks is the best teacher.
natural
After losing his job, he got his education from the school of hard knocks.
natural