English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Fight tooth and nail
Meaning
The idiom "fight tooth and nail" means to struggle or fight intensely, usually in a legal battle or over some matter of great importance. It is typically used to describe someone who is determined to win an argument, case, or challenge, even if it means having to make a lot of effort or go through a lot of trouble.
Usage
- He was prepared to fight tooth and nail for his legal rights.
- The company vowed to fight tooth and nail against the proposed tax increase.
- She fought tooth and nail to save her job, but it was ultimately unsuccessful.
- They were willing to fight tooth and nail to get their child into the best school.
- The two teams were evenly matched, with neither one giving an inch in their fight for victory.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "fight tooth and nail" is uncertain, but it has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It may have been derived from the idea of using one's teeth to defend oneself or to attack an opponent, or it may simply be a figurative expression that means to fight with all one's might or determination.
Synonyms in English
- Battle it out
- Put up a stiff resistance
- Fight tooth and nail
- Go toe-to-toe
- Engage in hand-to-hand combat
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "luchar de cabeza a cabeza" (literally, to fight head to head)
- French: "combattre à mort" (literally, to fight to the death)
- German: "Mit bitten und beißen" (literally, with bites and snaps)
- Italian: "combattere strenuamente" (literally, to fight strongly)
- Japanese: "爭闘" (more commonly known as "budo", which literally means martial way or the path of strength)