Like getting blood out of/from a stone

Pro Tip 1/3

Resistance Implied

The phrase often suggests someone's reluctance or refusal to provide what is being asked for.

Asking her for a favor is like getting blood out of a stone.

Pro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Use

This phrase is never used literally. It's always a metaphor for difficult tasks or situations.

Completing this project on time feels like getting blood from a stone.

Pro Tip 3/3

Negative Emotion

Using this phrase can express frustration or exasperation with the difficulty of the task.

Getting him to admit his mistake was like getting blood from a stone.