IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishtough luck
Meaning: Said when nothing can be done about a disappointment, often without much sympathy.
Example: “"The last bus has gone." "Tough luck, we'll walk."”
Origin: "Tough" in the sense of hard or unfortunate. The phrase is common in American English from the early 20th century.
Equivalents in other languages
Dutch: Helaas, pindakaas Literally: Alas, peanut butter
More English idioms
- cherry-pick To choose only the best or most convenient items.
- be cut out for something To have the right qualities for something.
- go to bat for someone To support or defend someone.
- pull the plug To put a stop to something, especially by cutting off its support.
- clean house To get rid of unwanted people or practices in an organization.
- kick it up a notch To increase effort, intensity or excitement.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Tu as la tête sur les épaules You're grounded, sensible, and dependable — not easily swept off course.
- Tu as le vent en poupe Everything is going your way — you're riding a wave of momentum and success.
- Tu es un as You're brilliant at what you do — the very best.
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