roll with the punches

roll with the punches

Fig. to absorb the force of a blow, as in boxing. You have to learn to roll with the punches. Accept what is dealt to you. Paul could never roll with the punches. He always had to get even.

See also: punch, roll

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roll with the punches  (American & Australian)

to be able to deal well with difficulties or criticism The poor woman has been jeered at and threatened with her life, but she just rolls with the punches.

See also: punch, roll

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roll with the punches

to adjust to difficult events as they happen roll with it She had to perform shortly after her brother died, but she rolled with the punches and put on a great show.

Etymology: based on boxing, from the literal meaning roll with the punches (step back or to one side as you are being hit), so that you do not receive the full force of the attack

See also: punch, roll