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not have the heart to

Idioms  
  1. Be unable to bring oneself to say or do something, as in He didn't have the heart to tell her the cat had died. [Mid-1600s] Also see have a heart.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Deontay Wilder believes Anthony Joshua does not "have the heart" to fight him, but says a bout between the former heavyweight world champions is closer than it ever has been.

From BBC • Dec. 18, 2023

I do not have the heart to break up with her because I feel obliged to look after her.

From Slate • Nov. 7, 2019

Now, I have no religious convictions at all, but I did not have the heart to evict Mary.”

From New York Times • Apr. 8, 2011

It's offensive to an entire audience who came of age with these women and who remain breathtakingly loyal, and out of nostalgic affection may not have the heart to turn away from them.

From Salon • May 27, 2010

She did not have the heart to tell them the bad news about the holiday ball right away—new party clothes, honestly!

From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood

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