English-grammar-lessons.co.uk

menu

Put the Hammer Down

What Does "Put the Hammer Down" Mean?

homeidiomsPut the Hammer Down
"Put the hammer down" is an English idiom. It means "to accelerate or increase speed significantly, often used in the context of driving or pursuing a goal with determination."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "put the hammer down" used in a sentence:
  • In the final lap of the race, he decided to put the hammer down and give it his all to secure the victory.
  • When facing tight deadlines, he knew it was time to put the hammer down and work at maximum efficiency.
  • Putting the hammer down requires focus, determination, and a strong sense of purpose.
meaning for put the hammer down

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 "Put the Hammer Down" 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.

A Quick Test

You now know what "put the hammer down" means, but are you good at English idioms? Let's see!
gold cup
Gold

gold cup
Silver

gold cup
Bronze

  • This test has questions.
  • A correct answer is worth 5 points.
  • You can get up to 5 bonus points for a speedy answer.
  • Some questions demand more than one answer. You must get every part right.
  • Beware! Wrong answers score 0 points.
  • 🏆 If you beat one of the top 3 scores, you will be invited to apply for the Hall of Fame.
Scoring System

Guru (+)
Hero (+)
Captain (+)
Sergeant (+)
Recruit (+)
Help Us To Improve English Grammar Lessons
  • Do you disagree with something on this page?
  • Did you spot a typo?
Please tell us using this form.
Do you know your English idioms? idioms test

Take Our Test.

search icon

Search our idioms database. (We have 10,000+ idioms!)