English

Alternative forms

• gloves come off

Phrase

gloves are off

1. (idiomatic) To argue or compete without regard to one's actions or feelings

   The gloves are off in this match; both teams are purposely committing fouls against opposing players!

2. (literally) From the sport of boxing where competitors fistfight wearing padded gloves; removing the gloves during a fight could result in serious physical injury

Synonyms

• (in an uncontrolled or difficult situation): when push comes to shove, when the chips are down, in a pinch