One must change one's actions accordingly if things do not proceed as one would like them to. A shortening of the phrase "If the mountain will not come to Mohammed, Mohammed must go to the mountain." You'll have to go woo investors if they won't come to you. If the mountain will not come to Mohammed, Mohammed must go to the mountain.

I am not going to yield submissively or easily. Well, I won't give up without a fight, so I hope she's ready to work her hardest to get this promotion—I know I will. I know Karen—she won't give up without a fight. Are you sure you want to challenge her in the election?

Something will not be accepted or believed as true. That kind of excuse may have worked in high school, but it won't wash with me. The deadline for the paper is tomorrow, no extensions. He may be able to skirt the issue in some regions, but it won't wash in these parts—these people want straight answers.