What does 'to the hilt' mean?
Definition
Meaning: To the hilt describes doing something completely, fully, or to the maximum extent possible.
La signification : To the hilt signifie entièrement ou au maximum, souvent dans un contexte d'effort ou d'engagement.
Example: She defended her position to the hilt during the meeting.
Grammar: Adverbial phrase. Often used after verbs to emphasize full commitment (e.g., “defended to the hilt”).
Quote: “He backed his argument to the hilt with undeniable evidence.” [Source]
N.B.: Originally from sword fighting, referring to plunging a sword up to its hilt (handle). Now used to describe complete or unreserved effort in any context.
Word Analysis
Français
»» Complètement
»» Totalement
»» À fond
Il a soutenu son projet to the hilt face aux critiques.
Elle s’est investie totalement dans la campagne.
English
»» To the hilt
»» Fully
»» Wholeheartedly
He supported the initiative to the hilt despite opposition.
The team was fully committed to the project.
Dialogue
Anna: "Did you see how she handled the presentation?"
Tom: "Yeah, she prepared to the hilt and answered every question confidently."
Anna: "No wonder they approved her proposal!"
Tom: "Exactly, she went all in on it."
Etymology
Origin: From medieval sword fighting, where driving a sword “to the hilt” meant fully inserting it up to the handle, indicating maximum effort or penetration.
Modern Usage: Used metaphorically in business, debates, or personal endeavors to describe complete commitment or effort.
Grammar Note: Adverbial phrase, typically used after verbs (e.g., “supported to the hilt”). Not commonly used standalone or as an adjective.
Audience
Ideal for professionals in leadership, advocacy, or competitive fields.
When to use: Use to the hilt when describing complete dedication or effort in actions, arguments, or commitments. Example: “The lawyer defended her client to the hilt in court.”
Extra! Extra!
For a visual explanation of to the hilt, check out the following videos:
To the hilt: meaning
Mandela uses 'to the hilt'
Wordreference
For more on our word of the day and its usage, visit WordReference for definitions, translations, and examples in context.
Here are some quick links for further exploration:
» English⇄English – Discuss and learn about words and their usage.
» English⇄French – Explore translations and linguistic nuances.
» Synonyms⇄Antonyms – Contextual variations, etc.
Common Expressions & Collocations
To the hilt
Doing something completely or to the maximum extent.
Example: "She was committed to the hilt in her charity work."
Fully
To the complete extent (similar meaning).
Example: "He was fully dedicated to the cause."
All in
Completely committed or involved (related expression).
Example: "They went all in to make the event a success."
Wholeheartedly
With complete sincerity or commitment (similar term).
Example: "She supported the decision wholeheartedly."
To the max
To the greatest possible extent (related idiom).
Example: "He pushed his skills to the max during the competition."
Comments
Post a Comment