stick to (one's) guns
stick to (one's) guns
To remain determined, resolute, or steadfast in one's opinion, belief, or perspective; to refuse to be persuaded by someone else into believing or doing something one does not agree with. Alludes to a soldier remaining and firing their gun(s) at an enemy, even when the situation might be dangerous or hopeless. The prosecution is going to try to trip you up with your statement and your alibi, but so long as you stick to your guns, there's nothing to worry about. I really admire Jess for sticking to her guns during college, and not submitting to the peer pressure of those around her to drink or do drugs.
See also: gun, stick
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
stick to one's guns
Fig. to remain firm in one's convictions; to stand up for one's rights. (Fig. on a soldier remaining in place to fire a gun even when all appears to be lost.) I'll stick to my guns on this matter. I'm sure I'm right. Bob can be persuaded to do it our way. He probably won't stick to his guns on this point.
See also: gun, stick
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
stick to one's guns
Hold fast to a statement, opinion, or course of action, as in The witness stuck to her guns about the exact time she was there. This expression, originally put as stand to one's guns, alluded to a gunner remaining by his post. Its figurative use dates from the mid-1800s.
See also: gun, stick
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
stick to your guns
COMMON If you stick to your guns, you refuse to change your decision or opinion about something, even though other people are trying to tell you that you are wrong. Once you have decided what is and isn't acceptable, stick to your guns despite your child's protests. He should have stuck to his guns and refused to meet her. Note: The image here is of soldiers remaining in position, even though they are being attacked by the enemy.
See also: gun, stick
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
stick to your guns
refuse to compromise or change, despite criticism. informalThe image here is of a soldier maintaining his position under enemy fire.
1998 New Scientist Researchers have bravely stuck to their guns as they went about seeking public funds.
See also: gun, stick
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
stick to your ˈguns
(informal) refuse to change your actions, opinions, etc. in spite of criticism: If the government sticks to its guns we’ll get through this economic crisis.See also: gun, stick
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- stand by (one's) guns
- stick by (one's) guns
- stick to guns
- stick to one's guns
- stick to your guns
- stick to one's guns, to
- make a dead set upon (someone or something)
- make a dead set at
- make a dead set at (someone or something)
- screw (one's) courage to the sticking place