Clear the hurdles
Meaning
To successfully overcome difficulties or obstacles in achieving a goal.
Origin
Imagine the roar of the crowd, the tension at the starting gun, and the rhythmic thud of feet hitting the track. The phrase 'clear the hurdles' springs directly from the exhilarating world of track and field, specifically the challenging event of hurdling. Standardized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this race demands athletes leap over a series of rigid barriers at full sprint, a precise dance of power and timing. Each 'hurdle' is a literal obstacle, and the runner’s success hinges on their ability to overcome it cleanly and efficiently, maintaining momentum towards the finish line. This literal act of conquering physical barriers quickly transformed into a powerful, universal metaphor for successfully navigating any difficult challenge or problem in life, translating athletic prowess into everyday perseverance.
Examples
- The project team worked tirelessly to clear the hurdles in the development phase, ensuring an on-time launch.
- After years of studying and sacrificing, she finally cleared the hurdles of her medical exams and became a doctor.