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like pulling teeth
01
used to refer to something that is inexplicably difficult
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "like pulling teeth" and when to use it?
The idiom "like pulling teeth" is used to describe a task or process that is extremely difficult, frustrating, or slow. The expression draws its metaphorical meaning from the challenging and often painful process of extracting teeth, which requires significant effort, precision, and patience. When something is compared to pulling teeth, it suggests that it is arduous, requires great persistence, or encounters resistance.
Example
Persuading him to lift the charges was a challenge, like pulling teeth.
Trying to gather accurate data for the research project was like pulling teeth.
Getting my teenage son to clean his room is like pulling teeth.
Convincing him to try a new hobby was like pulling teeth.
Getting a straight answer from the evasive witness during the interrogation was like pulling teeth.
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