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to bring a knife to a gunfight
01
to be inadequately prepared for a conflict or challenging situation
![to [bring] a knife to a gunfight definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/41438/original/?type=jpeg "to [bring] a knife to a gunfight definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "bring a knife to a gunfight" and when to use it?
The idiom "bring a knife to a gunfight" originated in the American West during the late 19th century, a time when gunfights were a common occurrence. It was a time when people carried guns for protection and disputes were often settled with a duel. Today, the idiom is used in a more figurative sense to describe any situation where someone is ill-equipped or unprepared to deal with a difficult challenge or task.
Example
If you don't prepare thoroughly for the job interview, you'll be bringing a knife to a gunfight and won't stand a chance against the other candidates.
If you think you can win this argument with just your opinion, you're bringing a knife to a gunfight.
They have been bringing a knife to a gunfight for years, refusing to adapt to new technologies and falling behind their competitors.
By the time he realized his mistake, he had already brought a knife to a gunfight and lost the opportunity to make a good impression.
