| 释义 |
(redirected from lay down tools)down toolsTo refuse to work, usually in an attempt to force improvement in one's working conditions. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Sir, I'm afraid the workers will down tools if we don't offer them a better contract. down tools or lay down tools BRITISHIf a group of people down tools or lay down tools, they stop working, often in order to protest about something. In August, the workers at this shipyard downed tools and went on strike for pay increases. Metal workers, engineers, waiters and cooks are among those who have laid down tools this week. down tools stop work, typically as a form of industrial action. British informalˌdown ˈtools (British English) stop work, either at the end of the day or to go on strike: The workers have threatened to down tools as a protest against the dismissals. |