by hook or by crook

/baɪ hʊk ɔːr baɪ kɹʊk/

phrase★Intermediate◆idiom

◆ What It Really Means

Achieving a goal through any means, whether ethical or unethical.

¶ Literal Meaning

Using a hook or a crook to catch or snare something.

Literal Breakdown

hooka tool for catching or snaring+crooka shepherd's staff used to catch animals

◇ Mental Image

The mental image of using tools to catch or snare something, symbolizing the use of any method to achieve a goal.

◈ When to Use

A person determined to win a competition or secure a position, even if it means using questionable methods.

◉ Cultural Note

The phrase reflects historical hunting and farming practices where tools like hooks and crooks were used to catch animals, later metaphorically applied to achieving goals.

informal

To achieve something through any means, whether fair or unfair, legal or illegal.

The politician vowed to win the election by hook or by crook.

The politician would use any method, even dishonest ones, to win the election.

She managed to get the promotion by hook or by crook.

She secured the promotion through any means necessary, regardless of fairness.

💡

This phrase often implies a willingness to use questionable or unethical methods to achieve a goal.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

by any means necessaryphrase

using any method to achieve a goal, regardless of ethics

fair or foulphrase

using any method, whether fair or unfair

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

This phrase is often used in contexts where someone is determined to succeed, even if it means bending or breaking rules.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid Misuse

Do not use this phrase in formal or professional settings where ethical behavior is expected, as it can imply dishonesty.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from medieval hunting laws, where 'hook' referred to a tool for snaring game and 'crook' to a shepherd's staff used to catch animals. It later evolved to mean using any method, legal or illegal, to achieve a goal.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is often used to express determination or desperation, and it can carry a negative connotation when implying dishonesty or unethical behavior.

English Dictionary