Pin Someone Down: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Pin Someone Down” mean?

"Pin someone down" means to force someone to give a clear answer or make a definite decision.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I tried to pin him down on a date for the meeting, but he kept avoiding the question.

Example

The reporter was determined to pin the politician down on his stance on the issue.

Example

She finally pinned her boss down on a raise after months of negotiation

Is “Pin Someone Down” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Pin Someone Down” 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 “Pin Someone Down” effectively in context?

You can use "Pin Someone Down" when you want to emphasize the need for someone to give a clear answer or make a definite decision. It implies a sense of persistence and determination in getting the information or commitment you need. For example, if a colleague is being evasive about a project deadline, you might say, 'We need to pin him down on a specific date so we can plan accordingly.'

• 1. Meeting Scheduling

  I tried to pin him down on a date for the meeting, but he kept avoiding the question.

• 2. Interviewing

  The reporter was determined to pin the politician down on his stance on the issue.

• 3. Negotiation

  She finally pinned her boss down on a raise after months of negotiation.

Similar phrases to “Pin Someone Down”:

Nail someone down

To force someone to give a clear answer or make a definite decision

Example

The lawyer was determined to nail the witness down on the exact time of the incident.

Get someone to commit

To persuade or pressure someone to make a definite decision or commitment

Example

She managed to get her team members to commit to the project timeline.

Hold someone accountable

To make someone responsible for their actions or decisions

Example

The manager held the employee accountable for the mistake and asked for a plan to prevent it in the future.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Pin Someone Down” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Pin Someone Down" is unknown.

Is “Pin Someone Down” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Pin Someone Down" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe the act of persistently seeking a clear answer or decision from someone.

What tone does “Pin Someone Down” have?

"Pin Someone Down" conveys a tone of determination and assertiveness. It suggests that the person using the phrase is not willing to accept vague or evasive responses and is actively seeking a definitive answer or decision.

Can “Pin Someone Down” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Pin Someone Down" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of seeking clarity and commitment. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, interviews, 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, 'We need to pin him down on a specific date for the meeting.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "pin him down"!' to imply the need for a clear answer or decision.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• nail someone down
• get someone to commit
• hold someone accountable
• demand a clear answer
• seek a definite decision

Antonyms

• let someone off the hook
• accept ambiguity
• allow indecisiveness
• give someone leeway
• be flexible