APAD: back to the salt mines

Definition

   to return to a physically demanding task

 

Examples

   1) I know what you mean. Going back to school after a long weekend is like

   going back to the salt mines.

 

   2) The boss just announced that we're working overtime this weekend. Back to

   the salt mines, everyone!

 

Etymology

   The term has its origins in the harsh working conditions of salt mining,

   which were dangerous and unhealthy.

 

Synonyms

   back to the daily slog, back to the grind

 

- englishdaily626.com [edited]

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The first Sunday after the holidays was gloomy and the heavy thought of going

back to the salt mines hang in the air. King tides flooded the coast and

atmospheric rivers from the northwest bore down on the south bay.