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By Hook or by Crook

What Does "By Hook or by Crook" Mean?

homeidiomsBy Hook or by Crook
"By hook or by crook" is an English idiom. It means "by any means necessary, whether ethical or not."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "by hook or by crook" used in a sentence:
  • I'll get that contract signed by hook or by crook.
  • She's determined to win the competition by hook or by crook.
  • We must reach our quarterly goals by hook or by crook.
meaning for by hook or by crook

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "By Hook or by Crook" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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