[go] through hell
1
to experience something that is extremely painful or difficult, particularly for a long time
The idiom "go through hell" likely has its origins in the broader use of religious and mythological imagery. It draws on the concept of hell as a place of extreme suffering, punishment, or torment in many religious traditions, such as Christianity. The expression has been used to describe situations where individuals experience severe hardship or adversity that feels comparable to the torment associated with hell.
- During the war, the soldiers went through hell, facing constant danger and hardship.
- "After the loss of her loved one, she felt like she was going through hell, struggling with grief and sadness.
- The athlete trained rigorously for the competition, going through hell to achieve peak performance.
- Many families went through hell during the economic recession, facing unemployment and financial struggles.
- He had to go through hell to overcome his addiction and rebuild his life.