Have a tiger by the tail
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
Hold a wild risk or force, can't let go.
Origin
From 20th-century America, tied to slang; 'tiger by tail' for risk, by 1930s in a tale for grab. A 1940s 'Time' uses it for a bind.
Usage Examples
- He's got a tiger by the tail; big risk!
- Have a tiger by the tail-can't drop.
- Tiger tail; wild ride.
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