Light at the end of the tunnel

Meaning

Sign of hope after a long difficulty.

Usage

Used when relief is approaching.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Railroad tunnels where light indicates an exit.

Used in 19th-century engineering journals before spreading to daily life.