Handbags at ten paces

Definitions

to engage in a physical fight or confrontation
When two people are about to engage in a physical altercation, usually in a dramatic and exaggerated manner
to engage in a verbal argument or disagreement
When two people are about to engage in a heated exchange of words or opinions, often in a dramatic and exaggerated manner
to compete or challenge one another in a non-physical manner
When two people or groups are pitted against each other in a competition or rivalry, often in a fierce and tense manner

Examples of Handbags at ten paces

Let's duel at ten paces instead of arguing any further.

"Handbags at ten paces" is an idiom that originated in the late 19th century and referred to the way ladies would settle their disputes in a duel without using guns. Instead, they would challenge each other to a duel "at ten paces" and swing their handbags at each other. In this example, the speaker suggests resolving an argument without causing any damage by keeping their distance and settling the matter peacefully, as a way of diffusing a tense situation.
The two teams were at each other's throats, but a wise coach suggested they settle their differences "handbags at ten paces".

Similarly, in sports and other competitive situations, the phrase "handbags at ten paces" can be used to describe a situation where two parties have a heated disagreement but agree to settle it peacefully by using some sort of arbitration rather than resorting to violence or vengeance.
After the debate, the two candidates parted ways, but they agreed to settle their differences "handbags at ten paces".

In this example, "handbags at ten paces" is used to refer to a peaceful compromise or resolution that prevents further escalation of a hostile situation. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from sports to politics, to suggest that both sides should agree to avoid any violence and instead settle their disputes through peaceful means.
The negotiators were at an impasse, but they finally agreed to settle their differences "handbags at ten paces".

In this example, "handbags at ten paces" is used to describe a situation where two parties are unable to reach a consensus but ultimately agree to find a compromise that will satisfy both sides. This could be a complex bargaining process, but the idiom suggests that like the original "handbags at ten paces", it will be done in a peaceful and mutually beneficial way rather than resorting to violence.
It's time for us to face off, but let's not make it a violent confrontation. Let's do it like they did it in the old Western movies - at ten paces with our handbags drawn.

This idiom is used to suggest a conflict that's not overly aggressive. It comes from an old Western movie cliché where two female leads would settle their disputes by walking slowly towards each other, throwing their handbags at the same time, and then laughing it off. In modern times, it's often used to describe a friendly competition or a lighthearted disagreement, where both parties are willing to resolve the issue peacefully.
The fashion designers were at each other's throats during the runway show, but they finally agreed to settle it at ten paces with their handbags.

This is a humorous usage of the idiom, where the designers' intense rivalry is compared to the classic Western standoff, but with handbags as their weapons. It's often used in situations where two people or groups are in a heated argument, but there's no real harm intended, and a peaceful resolution is desired.
After a contentious meeting, the two CEOs agreed to step outside and settle it at ten paces with their handbags.

This is a serious usage of the idiom, where the intensity of the situation is highlighted. It's often used in professional settings, where two powerful individuals have disagreed, and a peaceful resolution is required. It's a way of effectively diffusing a potentially explosive situation, while still maintaining a respectable distance between the parties involved.
The sales representatives were having a heated discussion, but the supervisor stepped in and suggested that they settle it at ten paces with their handbags.

This is a creative usage of the idiom, where the situation is playfully defused. It's often used in team-building exercises, where people are encouraged to settle their disagreements in a lighthearted and entertaining way. It's a way of helping people build trust, respect, and camaraderie, while still resolving their disputes amicably.

Conclusion

The idiom "handbags at ten paces" is typically used to describe a tense and dramatic situation where two individuals or groups are about to engage in a fight, argument, or competition. It conveys a sense of aggression, tension, and potential for physical or verbal confrontation.

In its literal sense, the phrase refers to a traditional manner of dueling where two opponents would stand ten paces apart and attempt to shoot each other with pistols. However, in modern usage, it is often used figuratively to describe any type of confrontational situation.

Origin of "Handbags at ten paces"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the 16th century, where duels and physical confrontations were a common way to settle disputes and defend one's honor. The phrase "handbags at ten paces" is believed to have originated in England, where it was used to describe the dramatic and exaggerated manner in which duels were conducted.

Over time, the phrase became more widely used to describe any tense or confrontational situation, regardless of whether it involved physical violence. It has also been adapted to different variations, such as "gloves at ten paces", "handbags at dawn", and "handbags at twenty paces", all conveying a similar meaning.

Today, the idiom "handbags at ten paces" is a popular and playful way to describe a tense or confrontational situation, often with a touch of humor. It is commonly used in both British and American English, and has become a part of everyday language to express a potential or impending argument or competition.