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REFERENCE

carrot and stick

idiom
Meaning

The simultaneous rewarding of good behavior and punishing of bad behavior.


Origin

disputed origin

From combining two ways to motivate a beast of burden, with the lure of a carrot placed just out of reach, and the threat of a stick behind.

Examples
SIMPLE

The manager uses a carrot and stick approach to motivate the team.

CONTEXTUAL

To improve productivity, the company introduced a carrot and stick policy that offers bonuses for high performance and pay cuts for missing deadlines.

COMPLEX

The government’s new economic strategy relies on a carrot and stick method, balancing tax incentives for green energy with strict penalties for industrial pollution.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    beat off with a stick

    To reject (a person making an unwanted amorous approach).

  2. 02

    beat with the ugly stick

    Used to describe someone who is particularly ugly or unattractive.

  3. 03

    clue stick

    A metaphorical stick used to beat information or understanding into a slow learner.

  4. 04

    get on the stick

    To get started; to begin working; to become active.

  5. 05

    hit with the stupid stick

    Used to describe someone who is stupid or unintelligent.

  6. 06

    holy crap on a stick

    Emphatic form of holy crap.

  7. 07

    keep one's stick on the ice

    To remain vigilant and ready for action.

  8. 08

    let crazy stick its dick in you

    To have sex with a male deemed insane.

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