- To maintain your position, decision, or beliefs firmly, especially when facing opposition or pressure to change.
Explanation
Origin
- Believed to originate from military contexts, possibly naval warfare or infantry battles.
- Soldiers (artillery gunners or infantry with firearms) were ordered to stick to your guns, meaning to stay at their posts and continue fighting or defending their position, even under heavy attack.
- This literal instruction was adapted figuratively to mean holding firm to one's principles or standpoint.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Don't fold (Don't give in under pressure)
- Stand tall
- Hold the line
Milder/Formal:
- Adhere to your principles
- Maintain your position
- Remain steadfast
- Do not yield
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most informal and semi-formal contexts. Can be used in business if the situation calls for showing determination.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Entirely figurative. Has nothing to do with literal firearms. Focus on the meaning of maintaining one's position firmly.
Examples
- Despite the criticism, she stuck to her guns and refused to compromise her principles.
- They tried to persuade him to change his mind, but he stuck to his guns.
- If you believe you're right, you need to stick to your guns.
Dialogue
Chris: The committee is putting a lot of pressure on me to approve the budget cut.
Dana: But you think it's a bad idea for the project, right?
Chris: Absolutely. It would cripple our progress.
Dana: Then stick to your guns, Chris. Don't let them bully you into a bad decision. Make your case clearly.
Chris: You're right. Thanks, Dana.
Social Media Examples
- Post: Received some pushback on my latest article, but I stand by my research. Going to stick to my guns on this one. #AcademicLife #Integrity
- Tweet: Sometimes you just have to stick to your guns, even when it's unpopular. #Conviction #Leadership
- Comment: Good for her for sticking to her guns against all that pressure.
Response Patterns
- I intend to.
- Thanks, I needed to hear that.
- It's hard, but I will.
- I know, but they're making it difficult.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After encouraging someone to stick to their guns:
- One might offer support: Let me know if you need any help. or reinforce their belief: You're doing the right thing.
After someone says they will stick to their guns:
- One might express admiration: Good for you. or ask about the opposition: What are they saying now?
Conversation Starter
- No. Usually advice or a description of someone's resolve.
Intonation
- Emphasis on stick and guns. STICK to your GUNS.
- Often said with encouragement, determination, or admiration.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in most English-speaking regions.