What does “Drop the hammer” mean?
"Drop the hammer" means to make a final decision or take strong action.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
After months of deliberation, the judge dropped the hammer and sentenced the defendant to life in prison.
After months of deliberation, the judge dropped the hammer and sentenced the defendant to life in prison.
Example
The CEO dropped the hammer and announced massive layoffs to cut costs.
The CEO dropped the hammer and announced massive layoffs to cut costs.
Example
When negotiations failed, the government dropped the hammer and imposed strict regulations on the industry
When negotiations failed, the government dropped the hammer and imposed strict regulations on the industry
Is “Drop the hammer” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Drop the hammer” 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 “Drop the hammer” effectively in context?
You can use "Drop the Hammer" to describe a situation where someone makes a final decision or takes strong action. It often implies a sense of authority and finality. For example, if a manager needs to make a tough call on layoffs, they might say, 'I've thought it over, and I'm going to drop the hammer and let go of some employees.'
- 1Legal Proceedings
After months of deliberation, the judge dropped the hammer and sentenced the defendant to life in prison.
After months of deliberation, the judge dropped the hammer and sentenced the defendant to life in prison.
- 2Business
The CEO dropped the hammer and announced massive layoffs to cut costs.
The CEO dropped the hammer and announced massive layoffs to cut costs.
- 3Government Actions
When negotiations failed, the government dropped the hammer and imposed strict regulations on the industry.
When negotiations failed, the government dropped the hammer and imposed strict regulations on the industry.
Similar phrases to “Drop the hammer”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Drop the hammer” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Drop the Hammer" is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated from the action of a judge or auctioneer using a hammer to signal the end of a session or to finalize a decision.
Is “Drop the hammer” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Drop the Hammer" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used in contexts where someone is making a final decision or taking strong action.
What tone does “Drop the hammer” have?
"Drop the Hammer" conveys a tone of authority and finality. It suggests that a decision or action is being made with conviction and determination.
Can “Drop the hammer” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Drop the Hammer" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various situations, such as legal proceedings, business, or government actions. It can be used in everyday conversations as well as in more formal contexts like meetings or presentations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The judge dropped the hammer and handed down a harsh sentence.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "drop the hammer"!' to imply readiness to make a final decision or take strong action.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- make a final decision
- take strong action
- exercise authority
- enforce a decision
- assert one's power
Antonyms
- procrastinate
- hesitate
- be indecisive
- avoid taking action
- back down
