brass tacks

noun

Informal.

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

brass tacks

plural noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of brass tacks¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

His plays demonstrate a fierce effort to get down to brass tacks.

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When it comes down to brass tacks, "natalists" like Musk seem only interested in raising birth rates in the most inhumane way possible, by force.

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“The major work will happen in the months ahead, when we’ll get down to brass tacks and craft a responsible and balanced budget which will help make California more livable and affordable.”

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But when it came to brass tacks, to financial compensation, they were not.

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Regarding the brass tacks of policy, the difference between Democrats and Republicans is vast.

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