What does “Pull the trigger” mean?

"Pull the trigger" means to make a decision or take action, especially in a decisive or final manner.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After much deliberation, he finally pulled the trigger and bought the house.

Example

The CEO pulled the trigger on the company's new marketing campaign.

Example

It's time to pull the trigger and start pursuing your dreams

Is “Pull the trigger” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Pull the trigger” 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 “Pull the trigger” effectively in context?

You can use "Pull the Trigger" to encourage someone to make a decision or take action, emphasizing the need for decisiveness and commitment. For instance, if a friend is hesitant to start a new business, you might say, 'You've been planning for months, it's time to pull the trigger and launch your company.'

1Personal Life
After much contemplation, she decided to pull the trigger and book a solo trip around the world.
2Business
The CEO had been considering various strategies, but finally pulled the trigger on a merger with another company.
3Goal Pursuit
After years of hesitation, he finally pulled the trigger and enrolled in a master's degree program.

Similar phrases to “Pull the trigger”:

Take the plunge

To take a risk or make a big decision

Example

After years of saving, she finally took the plunge and started her own business.

Make a move

To take action or make a decision

Example

He had been contemplating a career change for a while, but finally made a move and applied for a new job.

Seize the moment

To take advantage of an opportunity or act decisively

Example

When the opportunity presented itself, she seized the moment and asked for a promotion.

Jump in with both feet

To fully commit to something without hesitation

Example

He decided to jump in with both feet and join the volunteer organization.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Pull the trigger” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Pull the Trigger" comes from firearms. Pulling the trigger is the action that fires a gun. In the context of the idiom, it refers to making a decision or taking action, often in a decisive or final manner.

Is “Pull the trigger” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Pull the Trigger" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to encourage others to make decisions or take action, or to express their own determination to do so.

What tone does “Pull the trigger” have?

"Pull the Trigger" conveys a tone of decisiveness and commitment. It's often used in a motivating or encouraging context to push someone to take the necessary steps towards their goals.

Can “Pull the trigger” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "pull the trigger" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of making a decisive decision or taking action. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, 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, 'After careful consideration, she decided to pull the trigger and quit her job.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "pull the trigger"!' to imply readiness to make a decision or take action.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

commit
make a decision
take action
go for it
take the leap

Antonyms

procrastinate
delay
second-guess
hesitate
hold back