Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

school of hard knocks

idiom

/skuːl əv hɑrd nɒks/

Definition

A phrase referring to the education and life lessons one gains through difficult experiences and challenges rather than through formal schooling.

Examples

After years of struggling with various jobs, he finally graduated from the school of hard knocks.
She learned valuable lessons in the school of hard knocks when she started her own business.

Meaning

The term emphasizes learning from real-life experiences, particularly those that are tough or challenging, highlighting the idea that practical life lessons can be as valuable as academic learning.