SSC Stenographer 2025 PYQ — Question 191

SSC Stenographer - 06 Aug 2025 - Shift 3 • English • Q191

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom:

‘Tooth and nail’ 

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The idiom "tooth and nail" describes a situation where someone fights or works with extreme effort and all available resources.

Meaning: It means to struggle or compete with full strength and determination, often in a fierce or vigorous manner.

Origin: The phrase dates back to the 16th century and evokes the image of a person or animal using every "weapon" they have—including teeth and claws/nails—to fight.

Example: "The local community fought tooth and nail to prevent the historic park from being turned into a parking lot."