throw down the gauntlet

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.

Confronting an authoritarian strongman about his war crimes, Mon Mothma’s address to the Galactic Senate sees the future leader of the Rebel Alliance throw down the gauntlet against Emperor Palpatine.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 19, 2025

With Liverpool playing later on Sunday, and defending champions Manchester City still behind them after dropping points against Crystal Palace, Arsenal had an opportunity to throw down the gauntlet to their rivals.

From BBC • Dec. 17, 2023

So here’s a YouTube clip of the current definitive live-action Pac-Man to throw down the gauntlet.

From The Verge • Aug. 9, 2022

After scoring the goal that sealed Manchester City’s progress to the semifinals, Phil Foden appeared to throw down the gauntlet to Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 2021

One of her critics, referring to the last sentence of the above edict, asks: "Do not these words throw down the gauntlet?"

From Court Life in China by Headland, Isaac Taylor