bring on
To cause.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Too much stress can bring on a headache.”
“The cold weather might bring on another wave of the flu across the city.”
“The sudden change in economic policy served to bring on a period of significant uncertainty for investors and local businesses alike.”
- 01
bring a knife to a gunfight
To enter into a confrontation or other challenging situation without being adequately equipped or prepared.
- 02
bring a lump to someone's throat
To engender a strong emotional reaction.
- 03
bring back to life
To return someone to a state of consciousness or living after a state of unconsciousness, death or near-death.
- 04
bring down the curtain
To bring something to an end.
- 05
bring down the hammer
To treat very harshly.
- 06
bring down the house
To garner enthusiastic or wild applause or laughter.
- 07
bring forward
To call up for consideration.
- 08
bring home
To earn (money).
Last updated August 10, 2026