running the gauntlet
Facing sequential hostile challenges
Running the gauntlet is enduring a series of attacks, criticisms, or challenges in sequence.
The phrase comes from a military punishment where an offender walked between two rows of soldiers who struck him as he passed.
Now it describes any ordeal requiring passage through sustained hostility or difficulty: She ran the gauntlet of reporters outside the courthouse, New employees run a gauntlet of paperwork and orientation sessions.
Sustained effort capacity
- sufferingSustained experience of distress
- hardshipSuffering from difficult circumstances
- tribulationState of great distress
- adversitySevere difficulty or suffering
challenge · test · struggle · survival · crucible · trial by fire · initiation · hazing
endurance
Sustained effort capacity
- sufferingSustained experience of distress
- hardshipSuffering from difficult circumstances
- tribulationState of great distress
adversity · challenge · test · struggle · survival · crucible · trial by fire · initiation · hazing · rite of passage
flogging
Beating as punishment
birch · cane · beating · striking · blows · military · discipline · penalty · ranks · soldiers
running the gauntletred carpet treatment
Lavish welcome for honored guests
smooth sailing · royal welcome · warm reception · hero's welcome · walk in the park