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Like pulling teeth

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Metaphorical Pain

The phrase suggests an experience that is as unpleasant or difficult as physically pulling out teeth.

Illustration for Metaphorical Pain
Sitting through that meeting was like pulling teeth.
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Emphasize Frustration

Use it to stress the level of difficulty or resistance encountered in doing something.

Illustration for Emphasize Frustration
Convincing her to admit the mistake was like pulling teeth.
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Informal Expression

The phrase is informal, so it's best used in casual conversations or informal writing.

Illustration for Informal Expression
Getting a refund from that shop is like pulling teeth.
Visual representation of the word "Like pulling teeth"

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