What does “Keep your nose to the grindstone” mean?
"Keep your nose to the grindstone" means to work hard and stay focused on your tasks.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I have a lot of deadlines this week, so I need to keep my nose to the grindstone.
Example
If you want to succeed in this industry, you have to keep your nose to the grindstone.
Example
She's always the first one in the office and the last one to leave - she really keeps her nose to the grindstone
Is “Keep your nose to the grindstone” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Keep your nose to the grindstone” 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 “Keep your nose to the grindstone” effectively in context?
You can use "Keep your nose to the grindstone" to emphasize the importance of hard work and staying focused on your tasks. It's often used in a professional or academic context to encourage someone to be diligent and dedicated. For example, if a colleague is struggling to meet deadlines, you might say, 'You need to keep your nose to the grindstone and prioritize your work.'
- 1Work
I have a lot of deadlines this week, so I need to keep my nose to the grindstone.
- 2Career Advice
If you want to succeed in this industry, you have to keep your nose to the grindstone.
- 3Work Ethic
She's always the first one in the office and the last one to leave - she really keeps her nose to the grindstone.
Similar phrases to “Keep your nose to the grindstone”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Keep your nose to the grindstone” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Keep your nose to the grindstone" is unknown.
Is “Keep your nose to the grindstone” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Keep your nose to the grindstone" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It's frequently used to emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication.
What tone does “Keep your nose to the grindstone” have?
"Keep your nose to the grindstone" conveys a tone of diligence and perseverance. It's often used to motivate and encourage someone to stay focused and work hard.
Can “Keep your nose to the grindstone” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "keep your nose to the grindstone" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of working hard and staying focused. You can use it in conversations with colleagues, friends, and family, as well as in more formal situations such as job interviews, presentations, 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, 'He always keeps his nose to the grindstone and never shies away from hard work.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "keep your nose to the grindstone"!' to imply the need for focus and hard work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- work hard
- stay focused
- be diligent
- put in the effort
- stay committed
Antonyms
- take it easy
- procrastinate
- slack off
- lose focus
- be lazy
