He threw down the gauntlet and challenged me to a race.
throw down the gauntlet
idiomTo issue a challenge.
Origin
disputed originFrom the late medieval custom symbolizing a challenge, in French jeter le gant which nowadays usually means to give up after having tried hard (leaving the challenge to any takers). The English phrase dates to the 1540s (figurative use by the 18th century).
The rival company threw down the gauntlet by releasing a cheaper product, forcing us to improve our own designs.
By publicly questioning the integrity of the committee, the young senator effectively threw down the gauntlet, signaling the start of a long and bitter political struggle.
- 01
lock someone up and throw away the key
To lock someone up in prison indefinitely.
- 02
run the gauntlet
To undergo a series of tests or challenges.
- 03
stone's throw
A short distance, roughly equivalent to how far a person can throw a stone.
- 04
take up the gauntlet
To accept a challenge.
- 05
throw a bone to
To provide support or assistance to, especially in one particular way or to a limited extent; to make a concession to.
- 06
throw a fit
To become angry, enraged, or upset; to act or react with an outburst, as by shouting, swearing, etc.
- 07
throw a kiss
To kiss one's hand, then make a gesture as if one was throwing the kiss in a direction towards the recipient.
- 08
throw a monkey wrench in the works
Synonym of throw a spanner in the works.
Last updated April 17, 2026