BITTER END Meaning and
Definition
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Bitter end refers to the utmost point or extreme limit of a particular situation or process, often associated with negative or unfavorable circumstances that have reached their inevitable conclusion. Originally derived from nautical terminology, it refers to the final part of a ship's anchor cable, known as the "bitter," which is secured to the ship. When a ship is close to exhausting its anchor cable and reaches the bitter end, it indicates that there is very little or no cable left to deploy, leaving the ship vulnerable to drifting away or running aground.
Metaphorically, the term bitter end is used to describe the conclusion of an event, situation, or endeavor, where there are no further alternatives or possibilities for resolution. It implies a deep sense of finality and often carries negative connotations, emphasizing the hopeless or regrettable nature of the outcome. The phrase can be applied to relationships, projects, plans, or even personal struggles, describing a point where all efforts have been exhausted, leaving nothing but disappointment, frustration, or defeat. The bitter end signifies the point at which all possible measures have been taken, and there is no choice but to accept the ultimate conclusion, however unpleasant it may be.
Common Misspellings for BITTER END
- vitter end
- nitter end
- hitter end
- gitter end
- butter end
- bjtter end
- bktter end
- botter end
- b9tter end
- b8tter end
- birter end
- bifter end
- bigter end
- biyter end
- bi6ter end
- bi5ter end
- bitrer end
- bitfer end
- bitger end
Etymology of BITTER END
The etymology of the phrase "bitter end" is nautical in origin. The term "bitter" refers to the bitts, which are large posts or bollards on a ship used to secure ropes or cables. The "end" refers to the part of a rope that is firmly secured to the bitts. In sailing terminology, the "bitter end" is the very end of a rope or cable that remains on the ship when it has been paid out to its fullest extent. Originally, the phrase "to the bitter end" referred to a sailor's determination to hold on to the very end of the rope, even when the situation seemed difficult or hopeless. Over time, the phrase has come to mean perseverance or continuing until the very end, even when faced with adversity.
Idioms with the word BITTER END
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to the bitter end
The idiom "to the bitter end" means to continue doing something until its completion, no matter how difficult, challenging, or painful it may be. It implies determination, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to seeing a task or situation through to its very end, regardless of adversity or unfavorable circumstances.
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to/until the bitter end
The idiom "to/until the bitter end" means to persist in an activity or situation until its final outcome or conclusion, regardless of difficulty, hardship, or adversity. It suggests a determination to endure and persevere until the very end, even if the outcome is unpleasant or disappointing.
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till/until the bitter end
The idiom "till/until the bitter end" means to persist or continue with determination and perseverance until the very end, even when faced with great difficulty, adversity, or pain. It implies a refusal to give up or surrender.
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bitter end
The idiom "bitter end" refers to the very end or conclusion of something, especially when it is unpleasant, difficult, or painful. It often implies that a person or situation has reached a point of no return or has no option but to see the situation through to the end, despite the difficulties or hardships involved.
Similar spelling words for BITTER END
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