Bring It On: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
August 12, 2023

The idiom "bring it on" refers to the speaker not fearing a challenge, a fight, or a difficult situation.

In short:

  • "Bring it on" is an idiom that expresses readiness and eagerness to face a challenge, a fight, or a difficult situation.
  • It can also be used to show confidence, defiance, or enthusiasm.
  • It is often said in response to someone threatening or challenging the speaker.

What Does "Bring It On" Mean?

"Bring it on" implies that the speaker is prepared and willing to deal with whatever comes their way. For instance, if someone says "bring it on" before a sports match, they show they are confident in their skills and ready to compete. If someone says "bring it on" when an enemy threatens them, they show they are not intimidated and are prepared to fight back. If someone says "bring it on" when faced with a challenging task, they show they are eager to overcome the obstacle and achieve their goal.

The idiom "bring it on" can have different variations and related expressions, such as:

  • Bring it!
  • Bring them on!
  • Bring her/him/it on!
  • I'm ready for anything!
  • I can handle anything!
  • Let's do this!
  • Let's go!

These expressions have similar meanings and can be used interchangeably in most contexts.

Where Does "Bring It On" Come From?

The origin of "bring it on" is unclear, but some sources suggest that it may have originated from military slang in the late 19th or early 20th century.

Historical Example

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the earliest recorded use of the phrase “bring it on” was in 1898, in a letter written by a British soldier during the Second Boer War in South Africa.

The soldier wrote:

"We have had no fighting yet but we are all spoiling for one. If they want to bring it on, we are ready for them."

10 Examples of "Bring It On" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom "bring it on" in different sentences, demonstrating different contexts and situations:

  • She was nervous about her first day at work, but she told herself, "bring it on," and walked into the office with a smile.
  • He knew his opponent was more robust and faster than him, but he didn't cut corners. He looked at him and said, bring it on!
  • They had been studying hard day in and day out for the final exam. When they saw the questions, they felt confident and thought, "bring it on".
  • Riding roller coasters and thrill rides are some of her happy pills. When she saw the new attraction at the amusement park, she exclaimed, "bring it on!"
  • He had been bullied for years by his classmates. One day, he decided to stand up for himself. He faced his tormentors and shouted, "bring it on!"
  • She had always dreamed of traveling around the world. When she finally got the opportunity, she packed her bags and said, Yaas! Bring it on!
  • He is not afraid of criticism or controversy. He welcomes any challenge to his views or opinions. He always says, "bring it on".
  • She had been training hard for months for the marathon. There's no rest for the weary. She thought, "bring it on".
  • He had been waiting for this moment for a long time. He was about to propose to his girlfriend. He took a deep breath and said, "bring it on".
  • She had a passion for music and singing. She wanted to audition for the talent show. She practiced her song and said, "bring it on".

Examples of "Bring It On" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how "bring it on" has been used in pop culture:

  • In the movie "Bring It On" (2000), the main character Torrance (played by Kirsten Dunst), is the captain of a cheerleading squad that competes against other teams. The movie's title references the idiom and is used several times in the dialogue and the soundtrack.
  • In the song "Bring It On" (2006) by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, the singer uses the idiom to express his defiance and resilience in the face of adversity.
  • In the book "Bring It On" (2005) by Laura Anne Gilman, the main character Wren (a witch) is involved in a supernatural war between good and evil. The book's title is a reference to the idiom, and it is also used in the plot and the dialogue.

Other Ways to Say "Bring It On"

Many different ways to say "bring it on" have similar meanings and can be used in similar situations.

Here are some of them:

  • I'm ready for this!
  • Let's get this party started!
  • I'm up for it!
  • I'm game!
  • I'm all for it!
  • I'm down for it!
  • Let's rock and roll!
  • Let's make it happen!
  • I'm not scared!
  • I'm not backing down!

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Bring It On"

Here are some common questions that people may have about the idiom "bring it on," along with their answers:

  • What does "bring it on" mean?

It means that you are ready and eager to face a challenge, a fight, or a difficult situation.

  • What is the origin of "bring it on"?

The origin of the phrase "bring it on" is unclear, but some sources suggest that it may have originated from military slang in the late 19th or early 20th century.

  • What are some synonyms for "bring it on"?

Some synonyms are: "I'm ready for anything!", "Let's do this!", "Bring it!".

  • Is "bring it on" rude or polite?

It depends on the tone and the context. It can be rude or polite, depending on how you say it and who you say it to.

  • Is "bring it on" formal or informal?

It is informal. It is not appropriate for formal or professional situations.

  • What are some antonyms for "bring it on"?

Some antonyms are: "Don’t bring it on!", "I’m not ready for this!", "Let’s not do this!"

  • What are some variations of "bring it on"?

Some variations are: "Bring them on!", "Bring her/him/it on!", "I say bring it on!"

  • What are some related expressions to "bring it on"?

Some related expressions are: "I can handle anything!", "I’m up for it!", "Let’s go!"

  • How do you use "bring it on" in a sentence?

You can use it as an interjection or a response to someone who is threatening or challenging you.

Example: "Bring it on!" I’m not afraid of you! Come at me, bro!

  • Why has "bring it on" become so popular?

Because it captures an aggressive and confrontational attitude that resonates with some youth cultures and online communities.

Final Thoughts About "Bring It On"

"Bring it on" is an idiom that expresses readiness and eagerness to face a challenge, a fight, or a difficult situation.

In summary:

  • "Bring it on" means that you are prepared and willing to deal with whatever comes your way.
  • It can have different variations and related expressions.
  • The phrase may have originated from military slang or American football.
  • In addition, it can be used in different sentences, contexts, and situations, such as sports, fights, etc.
  • Lastly, it is informal and can be rude or polite, depending on the tone and the context.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about this idiom. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. And remember: if you ever face a challenge, a fight, or a difficult situation, don't be afraid to say, "bring it on"!

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