Idiom
get blood from a stone
To try to obtain something from an unyielding or impossible source.
Meanings
To attempt to extract something (such as money, information, or cooperation) from a person or source that is extremely reluctant, impoverished, or otherwise unable or unwilling to provide it, implying that the task is exceedingly difficult, futile, or impossible.
Definition
This idiom describes an effort to get something, often money, information, or cooperation, from a person or situation that is extremely difficult, unwilling, or unable to provide it. It highlights the futility and extreme challenge of such an endeavor. Essentially, it means trying to achieve the impossible or something close to it.
Examples
- Asking him for a loan when he's already deep in debt is like trying to get blood from a stone.
- The detective knew getting the truth out of the notoriously uncooperative witness would be like getting blood from a stone.
- Our charity event struggled to raise funds last year; it felt like we were getting blood from a stone.
- When the company declared bankruptcy, employees realized getting their unpaid wages would be like getting blood from a stone.
- Trying to persuade her to change her mind about the decision is like trying to get blood from a stone; she's incredibly stubborn.
Common mistake
A common mistake is using "take" instead of "get" (e.g., "take blood from a stone"), which changes the idiomatic meaning.
More verb phrases
- step on someone's toes To avoid offending or interfering with someone's responsibilities or authority.
- call it a day To decide to stop working or doing an activity for the remainder of the day.
- keep an eye on To watch someone or something continuously and carefully.
- read between the lines To understand the implicit meaning or unspoken message in what someone says or writes.
- make ends meet To earn just enough money to cover one's basic expenses.