# blink first

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/blink-first
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be the first party in some situation to give in or back down.

## Examples

- Neither side wants to blink first in this argument.
- The two companies are waiting for the other to blink first during these difficult contract negotiations.
- In the high-stakes game of geopolitical posturing, both nations remained resolute, neither willing to blink first and risk a loss of national prestige.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.