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

In the secular realm, though, brute force measures to address the gap are getting attention.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

Their brute force bludgeoned Scotland time and again.

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

In high school, Raymond could afford to get by with brute force.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 2, 2025

The mortar was crumbling, but it was not weak enough for her to break through with brute force.

From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan

Related Words

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