make heavy going of: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "make heavy going of" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is used to describe a situation or task that is difficult, challenging, or slow-moving. The idiom is typically used to express one's struggle or lack of progress in completing a task or achieving a goal.

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the Middle English period. Back then, the word "heavy" was used to describe something that was difficult or burdensome. Similarly, the word "going" referred to the act of making progress or moving forward. When combined, the idiom "make heavy going of" conveys the idea of encountering difficulty or facing obstacles in making progress in a particular undertaking.

Usage of this idiom can be found in various contexts, including conversations, literature, and everyday speech. It is commonly used in both formal and informal situations, making it a versatile phrase in English language usage. The idiom can be applied to a wide range of scenarios, such as describing the challenges faced by individuals in their professional or personal lives.

In fact, the idiom "make heavy weather" is closely related to "make heavy going of." While "make heavy going of" focuses on the difficulty or lack of progress in completing a task, "make heavy weather" emphasizes the struggle or hardship faced throughout the process. It conveys a sense of battling against the elements or unfavorable conditions. For example, one might say, "The team made heavy weather of the project due to constant interruptions and unforeseen challenges."

Another related idiom is "make hard work of." This phrase is used to describe the act of struggling or finding something difficult to accomplish. It has a similar meaning to "make heavy going of" and implies that the task or endeavor requires significant effort or exertion. For instance, someone might say, "She made hard work of organizing the event, but it was a great success in the end."

The idiom "heavy lifting" is also relevant to the concept of "making heavy going of" something. While "make heavy going of" emphasizes the difficulty or lack of progress, "heavy lifting" focuses on the strenuous or demanding nature of the task itself. It suggests that a significant amount of effort or exertion is required to complete the task successfully. One could say, "He did the heavy lifting in the project, taking on the most challenging tasks."

Lastly, the idiom "tough going" shares similarities with "make heavy going of." Both phrases convey the idea of encountering difficulty or experiencing challenging circumstances. "Tough going" is often used to describe a situation or task that is arduous or demanding. It implies that progress is slow or hindered by obstacles. For example, one might say, "The first few months of starting a new business can be tough going, but with perseverance, success is achievable."

The idiom "make heavy going of" captures the essence of encountering difficulty, facing obstacles, or experiencing slow progress in a particular task or endeavor. Its usage is widespread in the English language and can be found in various contexts. Whether used literally or figuratively, the idiom effectively conveys the challenges and struggles individuals may face in their pursuits.