stick to your guns

stick to (one's) guns

To remain determined, resolute, or steadfast in one's opinion, belief, or perspective; to refuse to be persuaded by someone else into believing or doing something one does not agree with. Alludes to a soldier remaining and firing their gun(s) at an enemy, even when the situation might be dangerous or hopeless. The prosecution is going to try to trip you up with your statement and your alibi, but so long as you stick to your guns, there's nothing to worry about. I really admire Jess for sticking to her guns during college, and not submitting to the peer pressure of those around her to drink or do drugs.

See also: gun, stick

stick to your guns

COMMON If you stick to your guns, you refuse to change your decision or opinion about something, even though other people are trying to tell you that you are wrong. Once you have decided what is and isn't acceptable, stick to your guns despite your child's protests. He should have stuck to his guns and refused to meet her. Note: The image here is of soldiers remaining in position, even though they are being attacked by the enemy.

See also: gun, stick

stick to your guns

refuse to compromise or change, despite criticism. informal

The image here is of a soldier maintaining his position under enemy fire.

1998 New Scientist Researchers have bravely stuck to their guns as they went about seeking public funds.

See also: gun, stick

stick to your ˈguns

(informal) refuse to change your actions, opinions, etc. in spite of criticism: If the government sticks to its guns we’ll get through this economic crisis.

See also: gun, stick