Determination is a universal human trait. Across centuries and cultures, we’ve invented colorful ways to describe the grit it takes to push forward. One phrase that has stood the test of time is the English idiom “by hook or by crook.”
It’s an idiomatic expression you’ve probably heard in movies, read in books, or even used yourself — but how much do you know about where it came from, what it means, and how to use it effectively in modern conversation?
This guide explores its origin, meaning, pronunciation, and practical applications, with examples, synonyms, and tips so you can master this expression in both speech and writing.
Pronunciation and Spelling
The phrase is spelled exactly as it sounds: by hook or by crook.
Here’s the IPA transcription for clarity:
/baɪ hʊk ɔːr baɪ krʊk/
Phonetically:
“bye hook or bye crook” — rhyming hook with book and crook with look.
Key Notes:
- It’s always lowercase unless starting a sentence.
- You’ll find it in dictionaries like Grammar Palette, Writing Explained, and Wikipedia under common idioms.
- Avoid hyphenating — there’s no need for by-hook-or-by-crook.
Meaning of “By Hook or by Crook”
At its core, this idiom means to achieve a goal by any means possible — sometimes fair or foul methods, depending on context.
English idiom meaning:
To accomplish something through whatever methods are available, whether easy or difficult, ethical or questionable.
Shades of Meaning
While modern speakers usually use it in a lighthearted or determined sense, the phrase can suggest:
- Positive determination → “She’ll graduate this year by hook or by crook.”
- Neutral persistence → “We’ll finish the project by hook or by crook.”
- Questionable ethics → “He got the promotion by hook or by crook.”
Quick Meaning Table
| Context | Connotation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Personal goals | Positive | I’ll learn French this year by hook or by crook. |
| Workplace challenges | Neutral | We’ll meet the deadline by hook or by crook. |
| Competitive advantage | Slightly negative | They won the contract by hook or by crook. |
Origin of “By Hook or by Crook”
The origin of “by hook or by crook” has been debated for centuries.
Wordorigins.org, Wikipedia, and historical texts give several theories — and all point to Middle English idiom traditions.
1. Medieval English Law & Forestry Rights
One popular theory says the phrase comes from medieval England, when peasants had rights to gather firewood from royal forests. They could cut branches using a billhook or pull them down with a shepherd’s crook — but couldn’t fell whole trees. This ensured they could collect wood “by hook or by crook” without breaking the law.
2. Religious & Royal Decrees
Another theory traces it to the reign of Edward I or earlier, when royal officials decreed that church parishes could gather building materials by hook or by crook. Historical sermons and parish records use similar phrasing.
3. Literary and Historical Records
The earliest printed use appears in the 15th century. For example, John Gower’s Confessio Amantis (1390) contains phrasing that suggests the idiom’s familiarity even then. Later, Shakespeare’s contemporaries used it freely in plays and pamphlets.
Key Takeaway:
Whether from forestry law or ecclesiastical rights, the origin of “by hook or by crook” reflects a time when resourcefulness — and knowing the rules — meant survival.
Using “By Hook or by Crook” in Modern English
Today, usage in modern English tends to focus on determination to succeed, often in a spirited, non-literal way. You’ll see it in:
- Business speeches
- Motivational writing
- Casual conversation
- Sports commentary
Here’s how to use it effectively across contexts.
At Work
In professional settings, it conveys a no-excuses attitude.
Example:
We’ll launch this product before the trade show, by hook or by crook.
Achieving Personal Goals
Perfect for personal challenges, like fitness or skill learning.
Example:
I’m running that marathon next year, by hook or by crook.
Daily Challenges
Everyday frustrations can be met with the same phrase.
Example:
The kids are getting to school on time tomorrow, by hook or by crook.
Making Commitments
Shows promise and persistence.
Example:
I’ll be at your wedding, by hook or by crook.
Creative Problem-Solving
It’s useful when unconventional methods are involved.
Example:
We’ll fix the old radio, by hook or by crook.
Expressing Determination in Conversation
When spoken, it adds a dramatic punch.
Example:
By hook or by crook, we’re making it to the concert.
Real-World Examples in Media and Literature
Famous uses of the phrase appear across culture:
- In politics, Malcolm X’s sentiment “by any means necessary” echoes the determination of by hook or by crook.
- In film, older adventure movies use it for comic determination.
- Writing Explained and 7ESL both highlight it as one of the common idioms that have stood the test of time.
Case Study:
In 1992, the British Prime Minister John Major said in a speech:
We will turn this economy around — by hook or by crook.
The phrase reinforced his message of persistence during a difficult financial period.
Similar and Related Expressions
Here’s a comparison table of synonyms and similar idioms, including connotation differences:
| Expression | Meaning | Tone |
|---|---|---|
| By any means necessary | Achieve a goal by any means | Strong, often political |
| Where there’s a will, there’s a way | Determination leads to success | Positive, motivational |
| Come hell or high water | No obstacle will stop me | Dramatic, informal |
| Against all odds | Succeed despite improbability | Inspirational |
| At all costs | No matter the sacrifice | Intense, sometimes ruthless |
| Whatever it takes | Use any required effort | Modern, casual |
| By fair or foul methods | Ethical or unethical means | Neutral or slightly negative |
| Leave no stone unturned | Explore every possibility | Methodical |
| Through thick and thin | Loyal despite hardship | Positive, relationship-focused |
| Bend over backwards | Make extreme effort | Often about helping others |
Tips for Using “By Hook or by Crook” Effectively
- Match your tone to the audience — formal for speeches, casual in friendly conversation.
- Don’t overuse it; idioms lose impact if repeated too often.
- Be aware of context — in some situations, it may imply unethical behavior if the outcome matters more than the method.
Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings
- Taking it literally — It’s not about physical hooks or crooks today.
- Confusing it with other idioms — While related to by any means, it has historical nuance.
- Ignoring connotation — In certain settings, it may be heard as approval of cutting corners.
Conclusion
The idiom by hook or by crook has journeyed from Middle English idiom roots in medieval law and everyday survival to a modern shorthand for determination to succeed.
Whether you’re promising to complete a project, reach a goal, or overcome a challenge, it’s a colorful way to say you’ll achieve a goal by any means — fairly or otherwise.
As Wikipedia and Wordorigins.org show, it’s one of those common idioms whose staying power lies in its flexibility. Use it sparingly, use it well, and your words will have both historical weight and modern punch.