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smell blood

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smell blood

Fig. to be ready for a fight; to be ready to attack; to be ready to act. (Like sharks, which are sent into a frenzy by the smell of blood.) Lefty was surrounded, and you could tell that the guys from the other gang smelled blood. The lawyer heard the crash and came running—smelling blood and bucks.

See also: blood, smell

smell/taste blood

to recognise an opportunity to be more successful, especially by taking advantage or someone who is in a difficult situation Environmental groups smell blood, and are increasing their campaign against the airport.

See be baying for blood, draw blood, scent blood, spit blood, sweat blood

See also: blood, smell

smell blood

tv. to be ready for a fight; to be ready to attack; to be ready to act. (Like sharks, which are sent into a frenzy by the smell of blood.) Lefty was surrounded, and you could tell that the guys from the other gang smelled blood.

See also: blood, smell

smell blood

To sense an opportunity for advantage at someone else's expense.

See also: blood, smell