grew a pair
Developed some backbone
Grew a pair means summoned courage or assertiveness, from the image of developing testicles (balls being slang for boldness).
The phrase typically describes someone who was previously timid or indecisive: He finally grew a pair and asked for a raise.
Often used as an imperative: Grow a pair and tell her how you feel.
Crude but common.
- man upEmbrace toughness, colloquially
- nut upSummon sudden courage
- sack upSummon bravery, act boldly
- toughen upBecome less easily hurt
- braveryBoldness before danger
confidence · assertiveness · steel oneself · boldness · grit · balls · brass balls · big boy pants · overcoming adversity · tenacity · rise to the occasion · step up to the plate · take the bull by the horns · face the music · resilience · determination · self-assurance · take heart
grew a pairchickened out
Retreated from fear
backed down · wimped out · caved · folded · ran away
grew a pairrolled over
Rotated to another side
caved in · gave in · knuckled under · submitted · capitulated
grow, grew, grown, growing, grows, grower, growth, outgrow, overgrow