[make] the best of a bad bargain
1
to try to achieve the best outcome possible when dealing with a difficult or bad situation
The idiom "make the best of a bad bargain" means to try to optimize or improve a situation that is not ideal or to make the most out of something that is less than desirable. This expression suggests finding a silver lining or extracting some benefit from a less-than-favorable circumstance.
- I know this data entry job isn't what you wanted for a career, but for the time being, try and make the best of a bad bargain.
- There was nothing we could do about it, but at least we made the best out of a bad bargain.
- After the car broke down during the road trip, they had to make the best of a bad bargain by exploring the small town while waiting for repairs.
- Although the job wasn't what he had hoped for, he decided to make the best of a bad bargain and gain as much experience as possible.
- The restaurant served mediocre food, but they made the best of a bad bargain by enjoying each other's company.