The expression "fight tooth and nail" conveys a deep commitment to doing everything in one's power to achieve a goal or resist opposition. It paints a vivid picture of someone using every last bit of their strength and determination as if fighting with both teeth and nails, to secure a win or defend their position. This phrase can describe a multitude of scenarios, from competitive sports to passionate debates, underscoring a relentless drive and unwavering persistence.
In short:
"Fight tooth and nail" means to fight with great effort or intensity.
The idiom "fight tooth and nail" describes someone who is trying very hard to achieve something, especially when they face tough opposition or challenges.
The phrase comes from the descriptive imagery of a wild beast in a fierce battle, using its teeth and nails (or claws) as weapons. The earliest known use of this expression in print was in the 1560s. However, the phrase’s roots can be traced back to the Latin phrase “toto corpore atque omnibus ungulis,” meaning "all the body and every nail." The phrase was used in Sir Thomas More’s “In a Dialogue of Comfort and Tribulation” in 1535. But it didn’t really take off until the 1700s.
“...but she is digging its grave tooth and nail ”
- a line from The Works of Charles Reade: The Cloister and the Hearth written in 1800.
To help you understand better, here are some examples:
The idiom means to fight or struggle fiercely, with full effort and determination.
It was first used in the late 1500s, with a notable mention in Shakespeare's "King Lear" in 1605.
No, it is applicable in various situations, not just physical fights.
Yes, it can describe determination and effort in any challenging situation.
It is widely understood in English-speaking countries. However, its direct translation may not be recognized globally.
An opposite could be "give in easily" or "surrender without a fight."
While it's not overtly informal, there might be more formal alternatives to use depending on the context.
Yes, it's a metaphorical expression comparing fierce human determination to the way wild animals might use their teeth and nails in a fight.
Many languages have idioms expressing fierce determination, though they might not use the same imagery.
It draws on the image of animals using their natural weapons – teeth and claws – in intense battles.
"Fight tooth and nail" is evocative of relentless determination and effort. Whether you're battling against formidable odds, defending a cherished belief, or simply expressing the extent of your commitment, it is a vivid way to communicate that you're giving it your all.
Here's a quick wrap-up:
