go back to the tools

English

Verb

go back to the tools (third-person singular simple present goes back to the tools, present participle going back to the tools, simple past went back to the tools, past participle gone back to the tools)

1. (industrial relations) To return to one's job after having held, or failed to obtain, a position in a trade union.
   • 1966, Proceedings of the General Convention, United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, page 414:

     I think Brother Bartalini put it very well when he said they would laugh at you if you had to go back to the tools.

   • 1975, The Spectator, volume 235, page 690:

     He could, as they say, 'go back to the tools' but at his age and with his record that might prove difficult.