bijl aan de wortel

Etymology
Literally, “axe at the root”. . From a saying by in Matthew 3, 10 and Luke 3, 9, apparently deriving from a Q Vorlage in Greek.

Noun

 * 1) A looming, fundamental threat.
 * 2)  A radical solution that ends something.
 * 1)  A radical solution that ends something.

Usage notes
Generally used in the singular with the definite article, though other constructions are attested. Commonly used with the verbs and.