pull teeth
The phrase "pull teeth" can be used literally in a dental context or figuratively to describe a challenging task.
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Definition
B2Dentistry
(technical)To remove a tooth from the mouth, typically due to decay or damage.
Example
- The dentist had to pull teeth because they were badly decayed.
B2General
(idiomatic)To undertake a task that is especially difficult or requires significant effort.
Example
- Getting him to agree to the plan was like pulling teeth.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "pull teeth":