[make] a man (out|) of {sb}
1
(of a difficult situation) to make a man tougher or more responsible
The phrase "make a man of someone" has its origins in older ideas of what it means to transition from boyhood to manhood, typically involving the development of maturity, responsibility, and qualities associated with being an adult. Figuratively, it is now used to describe the process of helping someone, often a young person, grow and develop into a responsible, capable, and mature individual.
- A couple of years in the army should make a man of him.
- I was just a kid when I came out of college, but my first few months at a real job made a man out of me.
- The army will soon make a man out of you.
- His time in the military really made a man of him, teaching discipline and leadership.
- The challenging journey of backpacking through Europe helped make a man of the young traveler.