ENGLISH
REFERENCE

strap on a pair

idiom
Meaning

To be brave; to show some courage, especially in a situation where one has so far failed to do so.


Origin

disputed origin

Abbreviation of "strap on a pair of testicles".

Examples
SIMPLE

You need to strap on a pair and tell him the truth.

CONTEXTUAL

Stop complaining about your boss and strap on a pair to ask for that raise.

COMPLEX

Faced with the daunting prospect of public failure, he realized he had to strap on a pair and defend his research before the committee.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    extra pair of hands

    The assistance of another person.

  2. 02

    flat strap

    At maximum capability, intensity, or speed.

  3. 03

    get a pair

    Synonym of grow a pair.

  4. 04

    grow a pair

    To be brave; to show some courage, especially in a situation in which one has so far failed to do so.

  5. 05

    have a pair

    To be manly, brave.

  6. 06

    pair of shoes

    A case or situation that is different from another.

  7. 07

    show a clean pair of heels

    To run away; to make an escape quickly.

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