Nuclear Option
An extreme measure of last resort that may solve an immediate problem but carries severe collateral costs — named for the idea that, like a nuclear strike, the fallout affects everyone.
Origin
Senator Trent Lott coined the phrase "nuclear option" in March 2003 during a U.S. Senate standoff over judicial nominees, likening a proposed rule change — allowing a simple majority to override the filibuster — to a nuclear strike whose fallout would damage both parties. Fellow Republicans had briefly code-named the maneuver "The Hulk," but Lott's more dramatic metaphor stuck and quickly spread beyond politics into everyday language.
Everyday Use
You've probably heard someone say "don't go nuclear" during a disagreement. Whether it's quitting a job on the spot, blocking a family member on social media, or filing a lawsuit instead of talking things out, the nuclear option is the move that can't be undone — and everybody involved feels the blast.