Idioms

have been to hell and back

have been to hell and back

To have endured and overcome a difficult, trying, or perilous experience or situation. Josh and I have been to hell and back over the years, so I knew I had to have him as my best man at my wedding. Wow, it sounds like you've been to hell and back! I'm just glad you're home safe now. You'll all feel like you've been to hell and back by the time you finish bootcamp, but it's the only way to make you into soldiers.
See also: and, back, been, have, hell, to
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

have been to hell and back

Fig. to have survived a great deal of trouble. What a terrible day! I feel like I have been to hell and back. After a day of shopping, I feel like I have been to hell and back.
See also: and, back, been, have, hell, to
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
See also:
References in periodicals archive
"I have been to hell and back, but what does not kill you makes you stronger."
Teacher: Sex trial put me through living hell; Call for teenaccuser to be named
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