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Region: US | Usage example: Let's get down to brass tacks and settle the budget.

Get down to brass tacks

Meaning

Focus on the essential facts or details.

Usage

Used to move conversations toward practical issues.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Possibly from upholsterers using brass tacks to measure work.

Recorded in American sources from the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

Bring down the house

Earn overwhelming applause or enthusiasm.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.