brass tacks

See synonyms for brass tacks on Thesaurus.com

nounInformal.

the most fundamental considerations; essentials; realities (usually used in the phrase get down to brass tacks).

Origin of brass tacks

First recorded in 1895–1900

Words Nearby brass tacks

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use brass tacks in a sentence

But since both sides believe me to be honest, they get right down to brass tacks and discuss the cases on their merits only.
The Iron Puddler | James J. Davis
It had many brass tacks driven into the stock, and was bright in its cheap newness.
The Way of an Indian | Frederic Remington
But what a handsome weapon you have; the staff all covered with velvet and studded with brass tacks!
Under the Rose | Frederic Stewart Isham
I guess if it comes down to brass tacks, my words as good as yours.
The Gray Phantom's Return | Herman Landon
Now tell me whats all this about, and maybe we can get down to brass tacks.
Polly and Her Friends Abroad | Lillian Elizabeth Roy

British Dictionary definitions for brass tacks

brass tacks

pl n

informal basic realities; hard facts (esp in the phrase get down to brass tacks)

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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