What does the expression "bite the bullet" mean and how did it originate? 

Imagine biting a bullet, actually! How painful would that be? Well, it’s good to know that that phrase is not taken literally. That’s the beauty about adding phrases and expressions to language. They have the ability to make communication more amusing and engaging with the backstories that are embedded in them. You might have come across someone using this phrase “bite the bullet”, but have you wondered about what it actually means and where it has its origins? Read on to learn more about this expression so that you can use it like a pro. 

What does the expression “bite the bullet” mean? 
The expression “bite the bullet” is usually used when one has to make the decision to go through a difficult, uncomfortable or awkward situation. Thus, one has to decide to do something that is often unpleasant- something that has been put off for a while. For example, “Although you do not enjoy dancing, you have to bite the bullet and learn it for the show.”  

It was first used in 1891 by the English novelist, journalist and short story writer, Rudyard Kipling. In his book, “The Light That Failed”, he wrote, “‘Steady, Dickie, steady!’ said the deep voice in his ear, and the grip tightened. ‘Bite on the bullet, old man, and don’t let them think you’re afraid.'” 

Where does this expression originate from? 
There are a few varying theories which attempt at tracing the origin of this phrase. However, the most popular one is, not surprisingly, related to war. According to this one, soldiers who were injuring during wars had to go through some excruciating surgeries and procedures. Hence, the doctors would ask them to, quite literally, bite a bullet as a strategy to distract them from the pain and ensure that they do not bite their tongue or let out agonising screams. This theory quite easily explains expression’s interpretation in modern times.  

Another well-known theory about its origin has ties with India. More specifically, the Indian Rebellion which took place in 1857. The powder cartridges that were used during this period for rifles came with a paper cartridge. This paper cartridge had to be bitten off before the gun could be loaded. When the sapoys, who were Indian soldiers serving the British or other European empires, found out that these cartridges and bullets were greased with pork or beef fat, they refused to fight. Most of them were either Hindus and Muslims, and it went against their religions to consume the fat of these animals. Thus, the phrase “bite the bullet” is a nod towards doing something that one is uncomfortable with.