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

In a fifth round that lit up Brooklyn's Barclays Center, Smith stood toe-to-toe with the heavy-handed Puerto Rican and dropped him with a looping overhand right.

From BBC

In this fixture last season, Liverpool went toe-to-toe in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

From BBC

In an enthralling game on Sunday night, the 49ers earned a thrilling 42-38 victory from a toe-to-toe slugfest with the Chicago Bears.

From BBC

Not only has the Frenchman led Sunderland to promotion - his fearless side have gone toe-to-toe with some the best teams in the top flight.

From BBC

I mean, I don’t think Jonesy wants me to go toe-to-toe with Gene the Mean, but I’m aware she wishes I’d stand up for myself sometimes.

From Literature