idiom · To cut one's way through thistles and thorns; to clear away brush and brambles.

探险队在原始森林中披荆斩棘，开辟出一条前进的道路。

idiom · To break through hardships and blaze a new trail; to overcome all difficulties on the way to a goal.

他在创业的道路上披荆斩棘，最终建立了自己的公司。