The phrase "hadst one nose to grindstone" is an old English saying that means to work diligently and tirelessly. The spelling of "hadst" and "nose" follows the traditional Old English spelling, with the "st" at the end of "hadst" representing the second person singular past tense of "have". The pronunciation of "grindstone" is transcribed as /ˈɡraɪndstoʊn/, with stressed syllables on the first and third syllables.
"Hadst one nose to the grindstone" is a colloquial English phrase that is used to describe an individual who is diligently working hard or is fully committed to the task at hand. This idiomatic expression is derived from the literal sense of the words, where "nose" refers to one's face, and "grindstone" is a rotating stone typically used for grinding or sharpening tools and blades.
Metaphorically, having one's nose to the grindstone suggests a person's unwavering focus, perseverance, and dedication towards completing a given task or achieving a specific goal. It implies an individual's willingness to endure strenuous efforts and toil persistently, often in a demanding or challenging situation.
The phrase can also convey the idea of being diligent, disciplined, and dedicated to one's work or duties. It suggests that the person is diligent enough to understand the importance of enduring hardships and undergoing laborious tasks to achieve success or accomplish desired results. Furthermore, it underscores the notion of being wholeheartedly engrossed in one's work without distractions or diversions.
Overall, "hadst one nose to the grindstone" encapsulates the idea of resolute determination, unwavering perseverance, and unswerving commitment towards a particular endeavor, emphasizing the necessity of hard work and focused dedication in achieving success.