Definition of plough through

The phrase "plough through" is a figurative expression that describes the act of completing a difficult or challenging task with determination and persistence, much like a farmer plows through hard soil in a field. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 16th century, where it was initially used in the context of agriculture. The ancient Greeks and Romans used plows (known as arks and arculi, respectively) to till the land, and the process could be quite arduous, especially in rocky or compacted soil. The action of pushing a plow through such obstacles required physical strength, perseverance, and focus, much like tackling a complex task requires mental and emotional fortitude. Over time, the term "plow" evolved to include a wide range of implements, from handheld tools for tilling small gardens to heavy machines for cultivating large fields. In 14th century Middle English, the word "ploggen" (meaning "to plow") was employed to denote the process of working one's way through challenging terrain with a plow. The term "plow through" emerged in the mid-16th century, a simple fusion of "plow" and "through," taking on its modern meaning as an expression to indicate the successful completion of a tough task. So, next time you have a major project to tackle, remember to "plough through" it with determination and focus!