* Hook and Crook as Tools: Some believe the phrase refers to actual tools used for poaching. "Hook" would be a hook used to steal fish, and "crook" would be a shepherd's crook used to grab sheep. This theory suggests the phrase originally meant "by any means necessary," even if it meant breaking the law.
* Hook and Crook as Metaphors: Others suggest the phrase arose from the way a "hook" is something that bends and curves, while a "crook" is a deceitful or dishonest person. Therefore, "by hook or by crook" means "by any means possible, even if it involves trickery or dishonest methods."
* Hook and Crook as Legal Terms: A third theory posits that "hook" and "crook" were medieval legal terms. "Hook" referred to a legal right, and "crook" referred to a legal loophole. This theory suggests that the phrase meant "by any legal means, whether through straightforward rights or through loopholes."
Regardless of its exact origin, "by hook or by crook" has become a common idiom meaning "by any means necessary, even if it is illegal or dishonest."
It's worth noting that the phrase was initially "by hook or by crook," with the second "by" being added later. The original meaning remains the same, though the emphasis on using any means possible is even stronger.