Grasp the nettle

usgb
verb

To deal with a problem or difficulty firmly and immediately, even if this will be unpleasant or dangerous.

You must grasp the nettle, have the courage to take the difficult decision and make the necessary cuts.
Visual representation of "grasp the nettle" - To deal with a problem or difficulty firmly and immediately, even if this will be unpleasant or dangerous.

Often appears as...

  • grasp the nettle and
  • must grasp the nettle

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "grasp the nettle"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Action Needed

The phrase suggests urgent action is necessary to solve a difficult issue.

Illustration for Action Needed
With the deadline tomorrow, we need to grasp the nettle and finish the project.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unpleasant Choices

Using this expression implies that the speaker is ready to handle an unpleasant situation.

Illustration for Unpleasant Choices
Even though firing an employee is hard, sometimes you have to grasp the nettle.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Bravery Connotation

It often infers that the speaker is acting brave by confronting a problem.

Illustration for Bravery Connotation
She grasped the nettle by speaking up against the unfair rules.
Visual representation of the word "Grasp the nettle"

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