What does “Hammer and tongs” mean?

"Hammer and tongs" means to do something with great energy or intensity.

What context can I use the in?

Example

They were going at it hammer and tongs during the argument.

Example

He was working hammer and tongs to finish the project before the deadline.

Example

The team played hammer and tongs to secure the victory

Is “Hammer and tongs” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Hammer and tongs” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Hammer and tongs” effectively in context?

You can use "Hammer and Tongs" to describe a situation or activity that is done with great energy, intensity, or enthusiasm. It implies that someone is putting in a lot of effort or working very hard. For example, if you see two people arguing loudly and passionately, you might say, 'They were going at it hammer and tongs during the argument.'

1Argument
During the debate, the candidates went at each other hammer and tongs to defend their positions.
2Work
He was working hammer and tongs to finish the project before the deadline.
3Sports
The team played hammer and tongs to secure the victory.

Similar phrases to “Hammer and tongs”:

Full steam ahead

To proceed with maximum effort, speed, or enthusiasm

Example

They decided to go full steam ahead with the project to meet the deadline.

Put one's heart and soul into

To invest all of one's energy, passion, and effort into something

Example

She put her heart and soul into her artwork, resulting in a stunning masterpiece.

Go all out

To make a maximum effort or give one's full commitment to something

Example

The team went all out in the final game of the season to secure the championship.

Give it one's all

To put forth one's maximum effort or energy into something

Example

Despite the challenges, she gave it her all and delivered an outstanding performance.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Hammer and tongs” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Hammer and Tongs" is unknown.

Is “Hammer and tongs” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Hammer and Tongs" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where there is a lot of energy, intensity, or effort involved.

What tone does “Hammer and tongs” have?

"Hammer and Tongs" conveys a tone of vigor, enthusiasm, and determination. It suggests that someone is putting in a lot of effort or working very hard to achieve a goal.

Can “Hammer and tongs” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Hammer and Tongs" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes intense or energetic actions. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They were going at it hammer and tongs during the argument.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to go at it "hammer and tongs"!' to imply readiness for a task that requires great effort.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

with all one's might
with great fervor
with full force
with utmost dedication
with unwavering determination

Antonyms

half-heartedly
lackadaisically
halfway
without enthusiasm
with minimal effort