scruff

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jacks took the game by the scruff of the neck after England stuttered to 105-5 in the 13th over.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

Moriarty figures heavily in the opening episodes of “Sherlock & Daughter” too, although Dougray Scott lends a malevolent scruff to him that Park’s interpretation tidies up.

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2025

They desperately needed someone to stand up and take the game by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Feb. 1, 2025

A team of young, unflappable characters is a positive, but sometimes you need players to take the game by the scruff of the neck.

From BBC • Oct. 29, 2024

Mrs. Monroe carefully picked Chester out of the salad bowl and carried him by the scruff of the neck to the kitchen.

From "Bunnicula" by Deborah Howe and James Howe