A lean patch phrase informal
The phrase is typically used with verbs such as "have", "experience" and "go through".
The adjectives "bad", "difficult", "rough", or "sticky" can substitute for the adjective "lean".
Used to refer to a specific period of difficulty or failure in one's life
Have you ever gone through a lean patch, sir? And how was your feeling at that time?
It is believed that people who used to experience a lean patch in their life are more likely to succeed.
Many people are experiencing a lean patch because of COVID-19 lockdown.
A humorous way of saying that what one has said is just what they acknowledge and may not be entirely accurate
Mike: Have you returned from your vacation on the beach? Your skin seems to get tanned.
Jenny: My skin is always dark. That's my story and I'm sticking to it!