toe-to-toe

American  

[toh-tuh-toh] / ˈtoʊ təˈtoʊ /

adjective

1. being in direct confrontation or opposition.

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adverb

1. in a position or attitude of direct confrontation.

   slugging it out toe-to-toe.

toe-to-toe British  

adverb

1. in one-to-one combat or in direct competition

   there aren't many fighters willing to go toe-to-toe with him

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adjective

1. (of battles, confrontations, or contests) involving two people or groups fighting with or competing against each other

   a toe-to-toe battle

noun

1. a fight, confrontation, or contest between two people or groups

Etymology

Origin of toe-to-toe

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Others relish the chance to go toe-to-toe with a dealmaking foe.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 14, 2026

Those tracking expert predictions leading up to the 98th Academy Awards know the competition to watch is between “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another,” going toe-to-toe in 11 categories.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

Before the face-off drama, a twitchy, stone-faced Dubois glanced around at the stained-glass windows as the managers went toe-to-toe backing their men.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

Lee later praised his team's performance after they went toe-to-toe with the Pistons for long periods of the contest.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

Swordsfolk go toe-to-toe against one another in single combat, fighting for the honor of impressing the High King and his Court.

From "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black