elbow grease
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It says that the government’s proper role is to clear a path so those who put in the elbow grease can earn success.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 2025
In ‘99% Perspiration,’ data and stories illustrate the roots and consequences of a very American dilemma: the belief that old-fashioned elbow grease will get you anywhere you want to go.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2025
His quick progression separates him from others his guitar coach, Matt Benham, has taught, and a big part of that is elbow grease.
From Seattle Times • Dec. 31, 2023
Antique lighting, although beautiful, also can be difficult to work with, because it may need some elbow grease and rewiring to get it functioning again.
From Washington Post • Jul. 26, 2022
International economists often describe South Korea as the single most impressive example of what free markets, democratic government, and elbow grease can do to transform a small agrarian backwater into a global powerhouse.
From "Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West" by Blaine Harden
