ENGLISH
REFERENCE

long screwdriver

idiom
Meaning

Interference (usually in military matters) by politicians.


Examples
SIMPLE

The general complained about the long screwdriver from the capital.

CONTEXTUAL

Military leaders often struggle when politicians use a long screwdriver to manage battlefield tactics from afar.

COMPLEX

The commander resigned, citing the persistent long screwdriver of civilian officials who lacked any practical experience in the theater of war.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little of something goes a long way

    Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.

  2. 02

    a week is a long time in politics

    In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.

  3. 03

    as the day is long

    Unceasingly; very; thoroughly; to a very high degree.

  4. 04

    come a long way

    To make significant progress.

  5. 05

    draw a long bow

    To lie; to exaggerate.

  6. 06

    draw the long bow

    To exaggerate; to tell tall tales.

  7. 07

    go a long way

    To be adequate or helpful for a significant amount of time.

  8. 08

    kick into the long grass

    To postpone action on something.

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