By the scruff of the/somebody’s neck

usgb
phrase

To grab or hold someone by the back of their neck.

He picked the kitten up by the scruff of its neck.
Visual representation of "by the scruff of the/somebody’s neck" - To grab or hold someone by the back of their neck

Often appears as...

  • grab someone by the scruff of the neck
  • hold by the scruff of the neck
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "by the scruff of the/somebody’s neck"
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Literal Use

Used to describe physically holding an animal (or rarely, a person) at the neck's back.

Illustration for Literal Use
The mother cat carried her kitten by the scruff of its neck.
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Physical Control

Indicates someone is being controlled or handled in a rough, physical way.

Illustration for Physical Control
The officer grabbed the suspect by the scruff of the neck.
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Dominant Action

Shows an assertive and dominant action, often implying discipline or authority.

Illustration for Dominant Action
The nanny took the unruly child by the scruff of the neck to leave the park.
Visual representation of the word "By the scruff of the/somebody’s neck"

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