build character
Strengthen one's resolve
Build character describes experiences—usually difficult or unpleasant ones—that supposedly develop moral fiber, resilience, or mental toughness.
The phrase often carries ironic undertones, used to justify or dismiss hardship: My father said shoveling snow builds character.
Parents and coaches invoke it to frame suffering as beneficial.
Sometimes used sarcastically when the "benefit" seems dubious: Working weekends for no extra pay really builds character.
- shape upImprove behavior or performance
- toughen upBecome less easily hurt
- hard knocksMisfortunes that educate
- trial by fireTest through difficult experience
- sink or swimSucceed alone or fail
self-improvement · make something of · growing pains · learning curve · integrity · resilience · grit · inner strength · honesty · perseverance · self-discipline · moral fiber · moral compass · patience · sacrifice · fortitude · endurance · role models
build charactertake the easy way out
Choose simplest available option
coddle · pamper · shelter · overprotect · baby
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