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By the scruff of the/somebody’s neck

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Literal UsePlay
Used to describe physically holding an animal (or rarely, a person) at the neck's back. SlideThe mother cat carried her kitten by the scruff of its neck.
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Physical ControlPlay
Indicates someone is being controlled or handled in a rough, physical way. SlideThe officer grabbed the suspect by the scruff of the neck.
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Dominant ActionPlay
Shows an assertive and dominant action, often implying discipline or authority. SlideThe nanny took the unruly child by the scruff of the neck to leave the park.