How to Pronounce "school of hard knocks"
expression
SKOOL-uhv-HARD-NAHKS
SKOOL-ov-HAHD-NOKS
Definition
Learning through difficult real-life experiences rather than formal education. It refers to gaining wisdom by facing and overcoming hardships.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈskuɫ/ /ˈəv/ /ˈhɑɹd/ /ˈnɑks
British English
skˈuːl/ /ˈɒv/ /hˈɑːd/ /nˈɒks
Simplified Pronunciation
US
SKOOL-uhv-HARD-NAHKS
UK
SKOOL-ov-HAHD-NOKS
Listen in Context
He learned everything from the school of hard knocks.
She graduated from the school of hard knocks, not from college.
Many people say the school of hard knocks taught them important lessons.
You can tell he’s been through the school of hard knocks—he’s really street-smart.