gloves are off

English - English

Definition of gloves are off in English English dictionary

From the sport of boxing where competitors fistfight wearing padded gloves; removing the gloves during a fight could result in serious physical injury

To argue or compete without regard to one's actions or feelings

The gloves are off in this match; both teams are purposefully committing fouls against opposing players!'.

Turkish pronunciation

glʌvz ır ôf

Synonyms

when push comes to shove, when the chips are down, in a pinch

Pronunciation

/ˈgləvz ər ˈôf/ /ˈɡlʌvz ɜr ˈɔːf/

Etymology

() From the sport of boxing.