stick to your guns
Meaning
To maintain your position or decision firmly, especially under pressure or criticism.
Origin
Originally tied to military imagery: artillerymen were expected to stay with their guns in battle rather than flee, so it came to mean holding your ground despite pressure.
Notes
Usually approving (be steadfast), but can imply stubbornness or inflexibility. Used in conversation and business; often about opinions/decisions under criticism or pressure.
Examples
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Even after everyone questioned her plan, she stuck to her guns and saw it through.
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If you believe the decision is right, stick to your guns during the meeting.
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He stuck to his guns and refused to apologize for something he didnβt do.
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The editor advised her to stick to her guns and keep the ending as it was.
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Itβs hard to stick to your guns when the pressure starts coming from your own team.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed pattern: βstick to your guns.β Possessive changes with subject (my/his/their). Verb inflects (stick/sticks/stuck). Often followed by βand β¦β or a clause about pressure.
Synonyms
- stand your ground
- hold firm
- hold your ground
- stay the course
- refuse to budge
Antonyms
- back down
- give in
- cave in
- change your mind
- waver