hold a gun to head

hold/put a gun to somebody's head

to use threats to force someone to do what you want Management are holding a gun to our heads. If we don't behave we'll lose our jobs.

See jump the gun

See also: gun, head, hold

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hold a gun to somebody's head also put a gun to somebody's head

to use threats to get what you want No one held a gun to her head and made her live with the guy - she made that bad decision all on her own.

See also: gun, head, hold