bring out the claws

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring out the claws" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is becoming aggressive or confrontational, often in a competitive or defensive context. Example: "When the negotiations turned sour, she really brought out the claws, refusing to back down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Certain celebrities still bring out the claws, though.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

President Donald Trump's proposed PBS funding cut brought out the claws of Jimmy Kimmel on his show Thursday.

Huffington Post

They bring out the cake.

The New Yorker

Or bring out the dates and pomegranates.

The New York Times - Food

Time to bring out the octopus pants!

The New York Times - Sports

Quickly bring out the mines.

WikiHow

This will bring out the main menu.

WikiHow

Make sure your bring out the story.

WikiHow

This will bring out the context menu.

WikiHow

This will bring out the Settings menu.

WikiHow

This will bring out the toolbar.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bring out the claws" to vividly describe a sudden or noticeable increase in aggression or competitiveness, particularly in situations where it was previously hidden or unexpected.

Common error

Avoid using "bring out the claws" in literal contexts (e.g., referring to an animal's actual claws). This phrase is reserved for describing a metaphorical shift in behavior toward aggression or confrontation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring out the claws" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe a shift in behavior, typically toward increased aggression or competitiveness. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests a readiness to confront or attack, metaphorically referencing an animal's claws.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bring out the claws" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe a situation where someone becomes aggressive or confrontational. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this expression is grammatically correct but relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. While vividly descriptive, it is best used in neutral to informal settings, avoiding overly formal or technical writing. Alternative phrases such as "become aggressive" or "show one's teeth" may be more suitable depending on the desired tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become aggressive

Focuses on the action of becoming aggressive, removing the idiomatic 'claws' metaphor.

show one's teeth

Similar to showing claws, implies a readiness to attack or defend.

get defensive

Highlights the defensive aspect, where claws might come out in response to a perceived threat.

become confrontational

Describes the direct engagement in a conflict, a potential result of 'bringing out the claws'.

adopt an aggressive stance

Emphasizes the posture and readiness for aggression.

go on the offensive

Shifts the focus to initiating the aggression rather than just reacting.

bare one's fangs

A more vivid and animalistic expression of aggression.

take a combative approach

Highlights the argumentative and oppositional nature of the interaction.

get tough

Implies a hardening of attitude and a willingness to use force or pressure.

engage in a fierce competition

Focuses on competitive intensity, where 'claws' represent the effort to win.

FAQs

What does it mean to "bring out the claws"?

To "bring out the claws" means to become aggressive or confrontational, often in a competitive or defensive situation. It suggests a readiness to fight or argue fiercely.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "bring out the claws"?

It's appropriate to use "bring out the claws" when you want to vividly describe someone becoming more aggressive, especially if they were previously mild-mannered or if the situation has escalated to a point of intense competition.

Are there alternative ways to say "bring out the claws"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "become aggressive", "get defensive", or "show one's teeth" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "bring out the claws" formal or informal language?

"Bring out the claws" is generally considered informal language. It's suitable for casual conversation and some news/media contexts, but less appropriate for formal writing or professional settings.