brute force

Idioms  

1. Also, brute strength. Savage violence, unreasoning strength, as in We hope that reason will triumph over brute force. Although this expression is also used literally to mean exceptional physical power, the figurative sense reflects the origin for brute, which comes from Latin brutus, for “heavy, stupid, unreasoning.” [First half of 1700s]

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Example Sentences

And to think he still operates with such brute force that he was shoving Rocket defenders all over the court.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

It was not just about brute force, though, there were deft touches too.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

And by the sheer brute force of its size, bond markets force both the subjects of its wrath, and the investors that rely on them, into submission.

From Barron's • Dec. 24, 2025

But, he added, “I don’t believe that you take this brute force, across-the-board approach to AI in the business.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 8, 2025

We will all be faster than Eric’s team, which will probably be good for capture the flag—I haven’t played before, but I know it’s a game of speed rather than brute force.

From "Divergent" by Veronica Roth

Related Words

• clout
• courage
• durability
• energy
• firmness
• fortitude
• health
• power
• stability
• tenacity
• toughness
• vigor
• vitality