To make a final decision and take decisive action, especially after a period of hesitation or planning.
This phrase directly references the final action required to fire a gun - after aiming and preparing, pulling the trigger commits you to the shot. The metaphorical use emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the moment of commitment and the irreversible nature of certain decisions.
The phrase captures that precise psychological moment when deliberation ends and action begins. In both literal and metaphorical contexts, there's often a brief hesitation before pulling the trigger - that final moment of doubt before commitment.
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