The expression "to take no prisoners" means to act ruthlessly and without making concessions, not caring about the effect on others. It originates from warfare where victors would not take prisoners.
L'espressione "to take no prisoners" significa agire in modo spietato e senza fare concessioni, non preoccupandosi dell'effetto sugli altri. Deriva dalla guerra, dove i vincitori non prendevano prigionieri.
Idiom | to take no prisoners |
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Definition | to act in a ruthless way, not caring about the effects on other people |
Examples | - The new headmaster took no prisoners. Five of the older teachers were told they were no longer needed. - If you want me to save the company money, don’t expect me to take any prisoners. |
Note | This expression derives from the situation in a war where the victorious army kills the defeated opposing soldiers rather than taking them prisoner. |
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