Work long and hard is a phrase that is often used to describe a job or task that requires a lot of effort and dedication. The crossword solutions for this phrase are SLOG and TOIL, both of which mean to work hard and laboriously. SLOG is derived from the Middle English word sloggen, which means to strike heavily, while TOIL is derived from the Old English word togian, which means to draw or pull. Both words imply a great deal of effort and dedication, which is what is required when working long and hard.