Here's a breakdown of the phrase's meaning:
* Brass: Represents the higher-ups, executives, or decision-makers in a company.
* Grass: Represents the everyday operations, the "ground level" of the business, where actual work is done.
The phrase implies cutting through the red tape and the hierarchy of a company to get things done quickly and effectively. It emphasizes action over talk and focuses on achieving results directly.
Here are some examples of how the phrase is used:
* "We need to get this project off the ground, so let's just brass to the grass and start working."
* "I'm not interested in hearing another presentation. Just brass to the grass and tell me what you're going to do to increase sales."
* "Let's cut through the formalities and get down to brass tacks – what are the real challenges we face?"
While "brass to the grass" can be a positive approach, it's important to use it judiciously. It can sometimes come across as abrupt or disrespectful, particularly if it's used in a formal setting or without considering the feelings of others.