1
general::
Be able to accept considerable responsibility, as in With his broad shoulders, he can easily handle both departments. [Second half of 1300s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): have broad shoulders
1. Lit. to have wide shoulders. • She has broad shoulders because she exercises and lifts weights. 2. Fig. to have the ability to cope with unpleasant responsibilities; to have the ability to accept criticism or rebuke. • No need to apologize to me. I can take it. I have broad shoulders. • Karen may have broad shoulders, but she can’t endure endless criticism.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs