The expression "dies hard" is often used to describe a person or a habit that is difficult to change or get rid of. The word "dies" is pronounced /daɪz/ and rhymes with "ties." The spelling of this word follows the rule of adding -s to the verb form of "die" to indicate third-person singular present tense. The word "hard" is pronounced /hɑːrd/ and rhymes with "card." The spelling of this word follows the rule of adding -d to the adjective form of "hard" to indicate past tense.
The phrase "dies hard" refers to a situation where a particular belief, habit, or characteristic is exceptionally difficult to change or eradicate. It describes a resilient or enduring aspect of someone's personality or behavior that remains steadfast despite challenges, setbacks, or attempts to alter it.
The term is often used to describe an individual's strong attachment, loyalty, or commitment to certain principles or ideas. It implies that these individuals are unwavering and resistant to change, even in the face of societal, cultural, or personal pressures. It suggests that their conviction or mindset is deeply ingrained and difficult to overcome.
The expression "dies hard" can also apply to habits or patterns of behavior that are hard to break. It suggests that attempts to alter or relinquish these habits are met with significant resistance or difficulty. For example, someone addicted to smoking may find it challenging to quit, indicating that the smoking habit dies hard.
Overall, "dies hard" refers to the durability, tenacity, and persistency of a particular belief, characteristic, or habit. It suggests that overcoming these aspects would require significant effort and determination. This phrase highlights the deep-seated nature of certain elements and acknowledges the challenges involved in attempting to change or extinguish them.
The phrase "dies hard" originates from the longer expression "old habits die hard". The etymology of this phrase can be traced back to English literature in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The saying gained popularity through the works of Scottish novelist Sir Walter Scott, particularly in his 1816 novel "Woodstock". In this novel, Scott wrote, "But the heart of old England... beat hard, and the feeling that old habits and old loyalties die hard was strong upon him". The phrase "old habits die hard" essentially means that established customs or behaviors are difficult to change or get rid of, emphasizing the resistance to change that people often exhibit. Over time, the expression has been shortened to "dies hard", which still conveys the same meaning.