Idioms

an uphill battle | struggle | task

This page is about the idiom an uphill battle | struggle | task

Meaning

If doing something is an uphill battle, an uphill struggle or an uphill task, it is difficult to do because of obstacles such as opposition from other people.

For example

  • Getting a permit to open a bar is an uphill battle - unless you know someone on the council, that is.

  • Looking for a job when you're in your 60's is an uphill task these days. Most companies want youth, not experience.

Note:
"An uphill fight" and "an uphill job" are also used to mean the same thing, but they are less common.

Quick Quiz

Getting the drug rehabilitation centre built will be an uphill battle because

a. it's being built on a mountain

b. it's the best place to build it

c. local people are opposed to it
a) it's being built on a mountain b) it's the best place to build it c) local people are opposed to it

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Common English Idioms

Contributor: Matt Errey