put a pistol to one’s head—commit suicide; shoot oneself:
- I’m blowed if I don’t put a pistol to my head, and end it, Mrs. Johnson.
put a pistol to someone’s head—use threats to force a person to do smth. (also: hold a pistol to someone’s head):
- Last time he signed his contract after prolonged negotiations and putting a pistol to his head would be wrong.