2007-03-07 11:38:17 · 7 answers · asked by whoami 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
It's a mixture of two metaphors, so is attempting to be funny (ironic). Although thay can have similar meanings, you would usually use either of these expressions on its own, not mix them.
'Put your foot down' means to insist on something, or not give in.
'Use a firm hand' means to be strict about something, to perhaps tell off a child who's done wrong (maybe literally with the hand, or not literally, just not changing your mind, as in 'put your foot down').
2007-03-07 23:40:37 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
To make a statement that is not up for debate. You are correct in your remark and will not change your mind. You "stand your ground" and are not going to be persuaded to think or act differently. example; when it comes to disciplining teenegers, you must put your foot down with a firm hand.
2007-03-07 11:43:33 · answer #2 · answered by Melanie H 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
As far as i know, this was a joke metaphor offered by Del to Rodney in the TV show 'Only Fools and Horses'. I've not heard it anywhere else, and i wouldn't be surprised if this was the source of the line.
2015-11-20 05:27:08 · answer #3 · answered by markey164 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's a spoof mixed metaphor, along the same lines as:
"I smell a rat; I see it floating in the air; I'll nip it in the bud"
2007-03-08 11:58:52 · answer #4 · answered by andrew f 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It means to be firm and strict and say exactly what you are ...
2007-03-07 11:45:45 · answer #5 · answered by Lauren D 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That is a mixed metaphor and has no meaning.
2007-03-07 11:40:49 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
to be absolutely adamant.
2007-03-10 05:30:57 · answer #7 · answered by jeanious 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋