biting wind and frost; harsh environment
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesidiom
biting wind and frost; piercing cold weather
literaryOriginally describes the harshness of winter weather, emphasizing the painful sensation of cold on the skin.
The winters beyond the northern frontier are piercingly cold, extremely hard to endure.
Even in the severe cold of biting wind and frost, the plum blossoms remain proudly open.
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When you're out traveling, the wind cuts like a knife and frost stabs like a sword—you should wear more clothes.
idiom
harsh and hostile environment; cutthroat conditions
literaryMetaphorical extension describing difficult circumstances, competitive pressure, or hostile social environments.
He endured the cutthroat competition of the business world and finally established a firm foothold.
This industry is a harsh battlefield; newcomers find it hard to establish themselves.
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Years of harsh trials and tribulations have made him incredibly strong.