nose on the grindstone

To keep oneself strictly to working, and working hard.

Jim's father told him to keep his nose on the grindstone and out of trouble until he has paid off his court fees.

by Crashlandon July 09, 2017

Nose to the Grindstone

Apply yourself conscientiously to your work or to work extremely hard

“Emily takes her bar exam next month, so she really has her nose to the grindstone.”

I've only got six weeks before my exams start so I'm trying to keep my nose to the grindstone.

by prettyreign January 06, 2011

put nose to the grindstone

Working hard for a long period of time.

Melvin couldn't get a date for the prom because he had to put nose to the grindstone on the shooting range to be selected in the military recruitments next year.

by wheelprick May 03, 2016