bite the bullet
Say it: bite the BUL-it /ˌbaɪt ðə ˈbʊlɪt/ · idiom
What “bite the bullet” means
Make yourself do something difficult you've been putting off.
More precisely: To make yourself do something unpleasant or difficult that you have been avoiding.
Example: “I finally bit the bullet and booked the dentist appointment.”
When to use it
In everyday conversation, when someone finally faces an unpleasant task, even though they would rather avoid it.
Similar words
face the music, grasp the nettle, take the plunge
Quick check
You've avoided telling your flatmate you broke their favourite mug, but today you decide to confess. Which phrase fits?
bite the bullet or bury your head in the sand?
Show the answer
bite the bullet
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