A dog’s life

usgb
noun

A difficult or unpleasant life, full of hardships.

After his business failed, he lived a dog's life
Visual representation of "a dog’s life" - A difficult or unpleasant life, full of hardships.

Often appears as...

  • living a dog's life
  • lead a dog's life

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a dog’s life"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

This phrase implies a negative quality of life, filled with struggle and discomfort.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Homeless in the harsh winter, he led a dog's life.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Avoid Literal Use

The phrase is not about a real dog's life, which can be quite pleasant; it's a metaphor.

Illustration for Avoid Literal Use
Working three jobs just to make ends meet is truly a dog's life.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Expression

It's an idiom that may not translate literally in other languages; understand it as a set phrase.

Illustration for Idiomatic Expression
Ever since the accident, she's been living a dog's life, facing constant rehabilitation.
Visual representation of the word "A dog’s life"

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