take lumps


take (one's) lumps

To experience and accept adversity, challenges, etc. The term typically implies that one perseveres without complaint despite such negative experiences. I know that I have to take my lumps as an intern to earn the other employees' trust and move up the corporate ladder.See also: lump, take

take one's lumps

Inf. to accept the result or punishment one deserves. (See also get one's lumps.) You've got to learn to take your lumps if you're going to be in politics. I hate taking my lumps. I'd rather pretend nothing had happened.See also: lump, take