No holds barred is an idiomatic term that originated from the sport of wrestling. It refers to a situation or contest in which there are no restrictions, limits, or rules that would prohibit or prevent certain behavior, tactics, or actions. The term implies that there are no inhibitions or constraints, allowing individuals involved to use any means necessary to achieve their objectives or to engage in actions that would normally be considered inappropriate or prohibited.
In a literal sense, no holds barred originates from wrestling matches where certain holds and techniques are disallowed. Therefore, when a match is labeled as "no holds barred," participants are free to use any hold, move, or tactic to defeat their opponent. This concept has been extended beyond the realm of wrestling to describe any situation where there are no limitations or boundaries that restrict behavior.
The phrase can be applied to various domains, such as politics, conflicts, debates, or discussions that allow participants to express themselves openly, without adhering to conventional norms or maintaining politeness. No holds barred often implies an intense, unbridled, and sometimes even aggressive approach, where individuals are not expected to hold back or display restraint.
Overall, no holds barred implies a scenario where all restraints, limitations, and rules are removed, allowing for uninhibited action and the full deployment of tactics, techniques, or strategies.
