tilt at (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Verb Phrase

Phonetic Transcription

/ tɪlt æt /

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "tilt at" typically means to engage in a conflict, challenge, or competition against someone or something. The term originates from the medieval sport of jousting, where knights would "tilt" at each other with lances. In modern usage, it can refer to a more figurative form of confrontation or effort against an idea, belief, or in a competitive context. This phrase is not extremely common and is more often found in written contexts than in everyday spoken language.

Example Sentences

1. He decided to tilt at the outdated traditions that have been holding society back.
   Él decidió desafiar las tradiciones anticuadas que han estado frenando a la sociedad.

2. Many artists tilt at the conventional standards of beauty in their work.
   Muchos artistas desafían los estándares convencionales de belleza en su trabajo.

3. The politician was known to tilt at major corporations whenever they threatened regulations.
   El político era conocido por desafiar a las grandes corporaciones siempre que amenazaban con regulaciones.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "tilt at" itself is not a commonly used idiom, the concept of "tilting" is often used in various expressions that imply challenging or opposing something. Here are a few relevant idiomatic expressions:

1. Tilt at windmills
   Meaning: To engage in a futile effort or battle against imaginary foes.

2. He often tilts at windmills when he criticizes the government's policies.
   A menudo desafía molinos de viento cuando critica las políticas del gobierno.

3. Tilt the balance
   Meaning: To influence a situation in a particular direction.

4. Her donation could tilt the balance in favor of the project.
   Su donación podría inclinar la balanza a favor del proyecto.

5. Tilt the scales
   Meaning: To alter a situation or decision.

6. The new evidence may tilt the scales in his favor during the trial.
   La nueva evidencia puede inclinar la balanza a su favor durante el juicio.

7. Get in the ring and tilt
   Meaning: To enter a conflict or competition actively.

8. If you truly believe in your cause, you should get in the ring and tilt.
   Si realmente crees en tu causa, deberías entrar en la pelea y luchar.

Etymology

The term "tilt" originates from the Old English word "tyltan," meaning to cause to fall or to lean. This evolved in the context of jousting and competitions, where knights would "tilt" against one another. The phrase "tilt at" has been adopted into a more metaphorical context over the years.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: challenge, confront, oppose, defy, attack
Antonyms: agree, comply, acquiesce, submit, yield