hammer and anvil
The term "hammer and anvil" is used in various contexts, including military tactics, blacksmithing, and idiomatic expressions, all involving the concept of pressure from two sides.
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Definition
B2Military
(technical)A strategy where one force pins down the enemy while another force encircles and attacks.
Example
- The general employed a hammer and anvil tactic to trap the opposing forces.
B1Blacksmithing
(technical)A setup where metal is shaped by striking it with a tool on a solid surface.
Example
- The blacksmith used the hammer and anvil to forge the sword.
B2Idiomatic
(figurative)Being caught between two difficult or unpleasant choices.
Example
- She felt like she was between the hammer and the anvil when deciding between the two job offers.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hammer and anvil":