“What does not kill me makes me stronger”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
The phrase means that experiences which are difficult or painful, but not fatal, can lead to personal growth and increased resilience.
Tone The tone is generally motivational and encouraging.
Where it comes from
The phrase originates from the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who wrote it in his book Twilight of the Idols in 1888.
Examples
- After recovering from the setback in her career, she truly believes that what does not kill her makes her stronger.
- He takes each challenge head-on, always reminding himself that what does not kill him makes him stronger.
- She faced many hardships growing up, but she insists that what does not kill her makes her stronger.
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