Tooth and nail meaning

To fight fiercely and with great determination, using all means available, such as tooth and nail.


Tooth and nail definitions

Word backwards htoot dna lian
Part of speech "tooth and nail" is an idiom or phrase made up of two nouns.
Syllabic division tooth and nail => tooth / and / nail
Plural The plural of the phrase "tooth and nail" remains "tooth and nail" and does not change.
Total letters 12
Vogais (3) o,a,i
Consonants (5) t,h,n,d,l

When it comes to survival in the animal kingdom, creatures often rely on their innate instincts and physical attributes. One such example is the concept of tooth and nail, which refers to using both teeth and claws to fiercely defend oneself or fight off predators. This expression emphasizes the primal nature of animals and the lengths they will go to protect themselves.

Tooth and nail is a metaphor for the intense and ferocious nature of a struggle or conflict. It represents a no-holds-barred approach, where individuals are willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top. This phrase captures the raw and aggressive energy that can arise in competitive situations, whether in nature or in human endeavors.

Defending Territory

Animals often use their teeth and nails to defend their territory from intruders. Whether it's a pack of wolves protecting their den or a bird of prey fending off rivals, the instinct to establish and maintain dominance is strong. This aggressive behavior is essential for survival in the wild, where resources are limited, and competition is fierce.

Survival of the Fittest

In the animal kingdom, the law of the jungle prevails - only the strongest and most adaptable survive. Using tooth and nail is a matter of life and death for many species, as they must fight not only for food but also for mates and territory. This relentless drive to overcome obstacles and emerge victorious is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of the natural world.

The Human Connection

While the phrase tooth and nail is rooted in the animal kingdom, it also has relevance in human society. People often use this expression to describe their own struggles and battles, whether in the workplace, relationships, or personal challenges. The idea of fighting tooth and nail resonates with the universal desire to overcome obstacles and achieve success against all odds.

In Conclusion

Tooth and nail symbolizes the primal instincts and fierce determination that drive all living beings to survive and thrive. Whether in the animal kingdom or human society, the concept of using teeth and claws to fight for what we believe in is a powerful reminder of our innate strength and resilience. By tapping into this primal energy, we can overcome challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.


Tooth and nail Examples

  1. She fought tooth and nail to defend her thesis during the debate.
  2. The two rival companies are competing tooth and nail for the top spot in the market.
  3. He held onto his job tooth and nail, despite facing numerous challenges.
  4. The siblings argued tooth and nail over who would get the last piece of cake.
  5. The activists are prepared to fight tooth and nail to protect the endangered species.
  6. The team defended their title tooth and nail in the final game of the season.
  7. She clung to the rope tooth and nail as she climbed up the steep cliff.
  8. The politician is known to fight tooth and nail for the rights of marginalized communities.
  9. The lawyer argued tooth and nail in court to prove her client's innocence.
  10. The family held onto their traditions tooth and nail, despite societal pressures to change.


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  • Updated 11/05/2024 - 18:11:21