gloves are off
English
Alternative forms
- gloves come off
Etymology
From the sport of boxing, where competitors fistfight wearing padded gloves; removing the gloves during a fight could result in serious physical injury.
Phrase
gloves are off
- People are arguing or competing without regard to their actions or each other's feelings.
- The gloves are off in this match; both teams are purposely committing fouls against opposing players!
See also
- (in an uncontrolled or difficult situation): when push comes to shove, when the chips are down, in a pinch