Draw/pull your horns in

usgb
phrase

To become less aggressive or ambitious.

The team had to draw their horns in after a few setbacks.
Visual representation of "draw/pull your horns in" - To become less aggressive or ambitious

Often appears as...

  • the team had to draw their horns in
  • the company had to pull their horns in

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "draw/pull your horns in"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Horns

Imagine horns as a sign of aggression; to 'draw/pull your horns in' is to act less confrontational.

Illustration for Metaphorical Horns
He was quite bold in the meeting, but he'll have to pull his horns in now.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Conflict De-escalation

Use it when someone needs to reduce tensions or stop being combative.

Illustration for Conflict De-escalation
The debate was getting heated, so I pulled my horns in to keep the peace.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Less Ambition

It can mean to curb your ambitions if they're seen as unrealistic or causing issues.

Illustration for Less Ambition
After the loss, the coach said we had to draw our horns in and focus on simple wins.
Visual representation of the word "Draw/pull your horns in"

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