Take your gloves off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Literally, to remove gloves from your hands. Figuratively, it means to stop being gentle or polite and to act more direct or aggressive, especially in a conflict or competition.
Usage & Nuances
The figurative use is especially common in sports, business, or arguments to signal that someone will no longer be gentle or hold back. Used mostly in informal or semi-formal settings. "Take the gloves off" (plural, without "your") is also common, especially in headlines.
Example Sentences
Please take your gloves off before eating.
basic
It's time to take your gloves off and start working hard.
basic
The coach told us to take our gloves off in the second half.
basic
If they want a fight, I'm ready to take my gloves off.
natural
After months of negotiation, both sides decided to take their gloves off.
natural
You were being so polite before, but now you’ve really taken your gloves off!
natural