[Idiom] NAIL YOUR COLORS TO THE MAST. - Showing Strong Commitment in Difficult Situations
Nail your colors to the mast.
to show one's commitment
The saying 'Nail your colors to the mast' is a vivid idiom that finds its roots in naval warfare. Traditionally, ships would show their colors (flags) to identify themselves. In the heat of battle, a ship’s colors might be struck (lowered) as a sign of surrender. However, if a ship nailed its colors to the mast, it was a clear signal that they would never surrender and were committed to fighting until the end. In everyday use, this phrase now means demonstrating one's commitment to a cause or an idea unwaveringly, even in the face of challenge or opposition. It speaks to a steadfastness and brave declaration that one will not back down, no matter what.
Example Sentences
Nail your colors to the mast and stand firm.
Encouraging someone to firmly stand by their decisions or beliefs.
He nailed his colors to the mast by publicly supporting the cause.
He expressed his unwavering support for the cause publicly.
By refusing to back down, she nailed her colors to the mast.
She showed her determination and refusal to back down by standing firm.