Meaning of grasp the nettle | Babel Free

Definitions

To act boldly, especially when there are short-term adverse consequences.

idiomatic

Examples

“Hence it was that a few dozen policemen, resolutely grasping the nettle, had no difficulty in handling it.”

“President Truman, when at last he grasped the nettle and dismissed MacArthur, knew well enough the outcry that would follow.”

“For a number of years a group of brethren of the Craig Yr Hesg Lodge, meeting in Pontypridd, had discussed the possibility of forming a new Lodge. This year they decided to grasp the nettle.”

“That Tony Blair should wait until the dying days of his premiership before grasping the nettle of nuclear expansion has proved dangerously neglectful.”

“We must be bold. We must grasp the nettle and make the most of this opportunity.”

“However, his lease would not be affected by the removal of his dukedom and his honours. Perhaps, if his uncle is still in residence by the time William ascends the throne, the future king will grasp this nettle too.”

CEFR level