This phrase is used to indicate that a problem or situation should be resolved from the root or from the main source, suggesting that the best way to solve a problem is to eliminate its main cause.
Examples
- Spanish: Si queremos solucionar este problema de corrupción, tenemos que matar la culebra por la cabeza y eliminar a los líderes corruptos.
- English: If we want to solve this corruption problem, we have to 'kill the snake by the head' and remove the corrupt leaders.