gloves are off

短语

发音

US

别名

gloves come off

释义与例句

phr.
  1. 1.

    Expressing that people are arguing or competing without regard to propriety, restraint, feelings, or (even) safety.

    习语

    The gloves are off in this match; both teams are purposely committing fouls against opposing players!

    In the early years after 9/11, it was often said of antiterrorism that "the gloves are off now."

词源

One possible etymology comes from the sport of boxing, where competitors fistfight wearing padded gloves; removing the gloves during a fight could result in serious physical injury. Another comes from the trend of gentlemen wearing gloves as part of their outfit; these gloves would often be taken off before engaging in rough behavior. Compare throw down the gauntlet.

来源：wiktionary