go to the mat

Idioms  

1. Fight until one side or another is victorious, as in The governor said he'd go to the mat for this bill. This term comes from wrestling and evokes the holding of an opponent when both contestants are down on the mat, the padded floor-covering used in matches. It has been used figuratively since about 1900.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

go to the mat

But it appears it’s only this one retired congressman who is willing to go to the mat publicly at this point.

From Seattle Times ● Feb. 7, 2024

Were there ever things that you had to really go to the mat to fight for or that actually didn't make it?

From Salon ● Nov. 29, 2023

While you’re at it, decide what you are willing to go to the mat for.

From Washington Post ● Nov. 25, 2019

Canada isn't likely to have a major issue on the new auto rules, but is expected to go to the mat on at least two U.S. demands.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 16, 2018

From the hall Lane heard him say to Helen: "Dick'll sure go to the mat with you for this."

From The Day of the Beast by Grey, Zane