hammer and tongs
In a manner indicating seriousness of intent and capability of harm.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“They argued hammer and tongs about the best way to fix the car.”
“The two rivals went at it hammer and tongs during the debate, each trying to prove their policy was superior.”
“The opposing lawyers fought hammer and tongs throughout the lengthy trial, neither side willing to concede a single point to the other.”
disputed origin
Perhaps from the use of a hammer and tongs by traditional blacksmiths. May also be suggestive of the manner in which the hammer is used.
- 01
bring down the hammer
To treat very harshly.
- 02
bring to the hammer
To put up for sale by auction.
- 03
hammer away
To continue discussing or trying to solve.
- 04
hammer home
To repeatedly or continually emphasize (an opinion or idea) until or so that a person or group of people understands it.
- 05
nail the hammer on the head
Nonstandard form of hit the nail on the head.
- 06
put the hammer down
To drive quickly; to step on the accelerator.
- 07
the nail that sticks out gets hammered down
Those who are too different or conspicuous get criticized or sanctioned by others.
Last updated August 10, 2026