take a licking and keep on ticking: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘take a licking and keep on ticking’ mean?
The idiom take a licking and keep on ticking means to endure a difficult situation or a physical beating and still remain strong and resilient. It suggests the ability to withstand adversity and continue functioning effectively.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "tick over" means to continue functioning or operating at a steady pace or level, often implying a state of minimal activity without any major changes or significant progress.
The idiom "take a joke" means to be able to accept and respond to humor or teasing in a lighthearted way, without becoming offended or angry.
The idiom "suck it up" means to accept a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining or showing weakness. It suggests that one should endure the situation and deal with it stoically.
The idiom "stick with" means to continue with or remain loyal to something or someone. It implies not giving up or changing one's mind despite difficulties or temptations.
The idiom "stick together" means to support and stay united with a group of people, especially during difficult times.
The idiom "stick to" means to remain loyal or to adhere to a specific plan or decision.
The idiom "stick it to" means to take revenge or get back at someone by giving them a difficult or unpleasant experience. It implies confronting and defeating someone in a confrontational or powerful manner.
The idiom "stay on" means to continue to work or be employed in a certain place or position for a period of time.
Unyielding Spirit
The idiom "take a licking and keep on ticking" is an English expression that originated in the United States. It gained popularity in the mid-20th century and is still commonly used today. This idiom has a straightforward meaning, which contributes to its enduring presence in colloquial language.
When someone "takes a licking and keeps on ticking," it means that they are able to endure hardships or setbacks but remain resilient and continue moving forward. This phrase highlights the ability to withstand challenges and keep going.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to a marketing campaign by the Timex Corporation, a well-known watch manufacturer. In the 1950s, Timex introduced a line of watches with a tagline that stated, "It takes a licking and keeps on ticking." This slogan emphasized the durability and reliability of their watches, highlighting their ability to withstand physical impact and continue functioning.
Due to the widespread popularity of Timex watches during this era, the phrase quickly entered into the vernacular and became associated with resilience and toughness. Over time, it evolved beyond its original context and became a figurative expression used to describe individuals who display similar qualities of endurance and persistence.
The idiom "take a licking and keep on ticking" is often used in situations where individuals have faced challenges, setbacks, or obstacles but refuse to give up. It conveys a sense of determination, tenacity, and the ability to overcome adversity. This idiom is particularly applicable to situations where one's willpower is tested, and the individual demonstrates a steadfast resolve.
Furthermore, this idiom can be used in a wide range of contexts, including personal, professional, and even sporting situations. It has become a popular motivational phrase used to inspire individuals to persevere and remain resilient, even when faced with difficult circumstances.
The idiom "keep on trucking" is a related expression that shares a similar sentiment. The phrase "keep on trucking" originated in the United States in the 1960s and is often used as a slogan or motivational phrase. It encourages individuals to keep moving forward, persevering through challenges, and not giving up. Similar to "take a licking and keep on ticking," "keep on trucking" conveys a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The idiom "keep on" is another related expression that carries a similar meaning. When someone tells you to "keep on," they are urging you to continue your actions or behavior, despite any obstacles or setbacks you may encounter. This phrase encourages individuals to maintain their course and not give up, highlighting the importance of perseverance and determination.
The idiom "take a licking and keep on ticking" has its origins in a marketing campaign by the Timex Corporation. It has since become a commonly used expression in the English language, representing the ability to endure hardships and continue moving forward. This idiom captures the essence of resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of those who refuse to give up despite facing challenges. Its enduring popularity reflects its universal appeal and the timeless value of perseverance.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom take a licking and keep on ticking can be used in a sentence:
- After his team lost the first two sets, he took a licking and kept on ticking, leading them to a victory in the end.
- Despite facing numerous setbacks in his career, he always managed to take a licking and keep on ticking, never letting failure discourage him.
- Even though her car was involved in a serious accident, it took a licking and kept on ticking, still being drivable despite the damage.
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