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Region: General | Usage example: Don’t lower your guard just because the initial crisis passed.

Lower your guard

Meaning

Relax your vigilance.

Usage

Used when warning against complacency.

Origin & History

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

Fighting or fencing imagery of dropping defensive posture.

Common in 19th-century military and sports writing.

Related Idioms

Let your guard down

Relax and stop being defensive.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

Wear your heart on your sleeve

Display emotions openly.

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.