Keep body and soul together

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase implies a struggle, often used when life is tough and a person is doing just enough to survive.

In the war-torn country, many families are keeping body and soul together with only basic necessities.

Pro Tip 2/3

Using this expression can convey a sense of sympathy or recognition of someone's difficult circumstances.

Despite the loss of his farm, he's keeping body and soul together, which is admirable.

Pro Tip 3/3

Rarely means physical survival but often refers to coping with life's challenges in general.

After the divorce, she kept body and soul together by focusing on her art.