[Idiom] COLD TURKEY. - Effective Strategies for Stopping Habits Abruptly
Cold turkey.
abrupt stop
'Cold turkey' refers to the abrupt stopping of a habit, especially when discussing addictions like smoking or drug use. This phrase supposedly originates from the cold, clammy feel of a turkey's skin and the goosebumps that resemble this when someone suddenly stops an addictive substance, experiencing withdrawal symptoms. It's about immediate cessation, without easing out of the habit.
Example Sentences
He decided to quit smoking cold turkey.
He decided to quit smoking immediately and completely.
She went cold turkey on caffeine last month.
She gave up caffeine entirely last month.
Giving up sugar cold turkey was a tough challenge for him.
Quitting sugar entirely was a tough challenge for him.