English

Alternative forms

• my way or highway

Phrase

my way or the highway

1. (chiefly US, idiomatic) An expression suggesting an ultimatum which indicates the listener(s) will either conform to the desires or teachings of the speaker or else be excluded.
   • 1995, "Gingrich . . . My Way or the Highway," Time, 2 Jun.,

     Speaker Gingrich said today that if President Clinton follows through on his threat to veto key GOP legislation, the House will shut down parts of the federal government.

Usage notes

• Sometimes seen with other pronouns, e.g. her way or the highway.

Derived terms

• my-way-or-the-highway (adj.)

See also

• Fit in or **** off
• My way or the highway