THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
By hook or by crook
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
By any method possible.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- We were determined to get the show ready by hook or by crook.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
We were determined to get the show ready ________.
Show the answer
By hook or by crook — By any method possible.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “By hook or by crook” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
By any method possible.
Compare: We were determined to get the show ready by hook or by crook.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it emphatically when expressing strong determination to get something done. It is conversational and may sound rather ruthless.
More examples in context
- The character vowed to win the competition by hook or by crook.
- “We will reach the venue by hook or by crook,” she said as we compared transport options.
Usage note
The phrase stresses determination, not a particular method. It can sound as though the speaker might disregard rules, so choose plainer wording when the means matter.
A short conversation
A: Are you still determined to attend the workshop?
B: Yes, by hook or by crook. I am checking every available train.
A: Let us make sure the route is practical before booking.
One more practice question
What does “We will find a way by hook or by crook” emphasise?
A. Determination to use whatever method is available.
B. A firm decision not to try any method at all.
Check your answer
A. The speaker is determined to achieve the result somehow.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.