grab the bull by the horns
Face challenges head-on
To grab the bull by the horns is to confront a difficult situation directly and decisively rather than avoiding it.
The image is of seizing a dangerous animal at its most dangerous point—taking control rather than retreating: She decided to grab the bull by the horns and ask her boss directly about the promotion.
Sometimes shortened to take the bull by the horns.
- confrontFace squarely, address directly
- approachWay of handling something
- resolveFirmness of purpose
- tackleGear or takedown
- decisiveQuick to conclude
challenge · bravery · initiative · step up to the plate · rise to the occasion · grasp the nettle · determination · willpower · audacity · take the plunge · seize the moment · grit · fearlessness · no guts no glory · bite the bullet · tenacity · assertiveness · authority
grab the bull by the hornsbury one's head in the sand
Avoid acknowledging uncomfortable truths
dodge · sidestep · evade · shy away from · turn a blind eye
grab the bull by the hornssit on one's hands
Choose inaction over involvement
wait and see · do nothing · twiddle one's thumbs · drag one's feet · dither
grab the bull by the hornschicken out
Withdraw due to fear
lose one's nerve · get cold feet · shrink back · cower · flinch