not have the heart to
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Deontay Wilder believes Anthony Joshua does not "have the heart" to fight him, but says a bout between the former heavyweight world champions is closer than it ever has been.
From BBC • Dec. 18, 2023
I do not have the heart to break up with her because I feel obliged to look after her.
From Slate • Nov. 7, 2019
It's offensive to an entire audience who came of age with these women and who remain breathtakingly loyal, and out of nostalgic affection may not have the heart to turn away from them.
From Salon • May 27, 2010
So many people offered to help that Aimee Goodwin, the event’s food coordinator, had too many offers to bake goodies, but did not have the heart to turn any of them down.
From New York Times • Feb. 27, 2010
But I did not have the heart to tell her.
From "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
