Take by the scruff of the neck: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Take by the scruff of the neck” mean?

"Take by the scruff of the neck" means to firmly grab someone by the back of their neck or collar.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The teacher had to take the student by the scruff of the neck to get their attention.

Example

The mother took her misbehaving child by the scruff of the neck and scolded them.

Example

The security guard took the troublemaker by the scruff of the neck and escorted them out of the building

Is “Take by the scruff of the neck” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Take by the scruff of the neck” 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 “Take by the scruff of the neck” effectively in context?

You can use "Take by the scruff of the neck" to describe a situation where someone firmly grabs another person by the back of their neck or collar. It implies taking control or asserting authority over someone. For example, if a teacher needs to get a student's attention, they might "take the student by the scruff of the neck" and speak to them directly.

• 1. Classroom

  The teacher had to take the student by the scruff of the neck to get their attention.

• 2. Parenting

  The mother took her misbehaving child by the scruff of the neck and scolded them.

• 3. Security

  The security guard took the troublemaker by the scruff of the neck and escorted them out of the building.

Similar phrases to “Take by the scruff of the neck”:

Get a grip on

To take control or assert authority over a situation or person

Example

The manager needed to get a grip on the unruly employees.

Take charge

To assume control or responsibility for a situation

Example

She decided to take charge and organize the team's project.

Assert one's authority

To demonstrate one's power or control over others

Example

The CEO asserted his authority by making important decisions.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Take by the scruff of the neck” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Take by the scruff of the neck" is unknown.

Is “Take by the scruff of the neck” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Take by the scruff of the neck" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more commonly used in specific contexts such as parenting, teaching, or security situations.

What tone does “Take by the scruff of the neck” have?

"Take by the scruff of the neck" conveys a tone of authority and control. It is often used to describe a situation where someone takes decisive action to assert their dominance or discipline someone.

Can “Take by the scruff of the neck” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Take by the scruff of the neck" is more commonly used in informal settings, such as conversations between parents, teachers, or security personnel. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional situations.

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

The phrase "Take by the scruff of the neck" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The teacher had to take the student by the scruff of the neck to get their attention.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "take them by the scruff of the neck"!' to imply taking control of a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• dominate
• seize control
• take command
• exercise power
• establish dominance

Antonyms

• relinquish control
• give up authority
• submit to others
• lose power
• yield to someone else