Go for the jugular

usgb
verb

To fiercely attack someone's weakest point.

When the prosecutor found a flaw in the defendant's story, he went for the jugular in his closing arguments.
Visual representation of "go for the jugular" - To fiercely attack someone's weakest point

Often appears as...

  • go for someone's jugular
  • preparing to go for the jugular

Usage tips

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "go for the jugular"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Aggressive Strategy

Used when someone intends to win or succeed by directly targeting another's vulnerabilities.

Illustration for Aggressive Strategy
In the debate, she decided to go for the jugular, exposing his lack of experience.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Confrontational Tone

Indicates a harsh or intense form of confrontation that doesn't hold back.

Illustration for Confrontational Tone
The interview took a turn when he went for the jugular with his tough questions.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase doesn't involve physical attack; it's a metaphor for targeting weaknesses.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
The critic went for the jugular, calling the film a disaster of epic proportions.
Visual representation of the word "Go for the jugular"

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