by one’s own hand: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘by one's own hand’ mean?
The idiom *by one's own hand* means to be responsible for causing one's own death or for taking action that leads to a detrimental outcome.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take matters into one's own hands" means to personally handle or assume responsibility for a situation instead of relying on others to do so.
The idiom "eat out of someone's hand" means to be completely under someone's control or influence, obeying their every command without question.
The idiom "eat one's own" means to act selfishly or prioritize one's own needs or interests above others, often to the detriment of others or the overall goal.
The idiom "eat one's gun" is an extreme figurative expression that refers to the act of committing suicide by shooting oneself with a gun. It signifies utter desperation or hopelessness in a person's life.
The idiom "draw one's last breath" means to die or to take one's final breath before passing away.
The idiom "do well for oneself" means to be successful or prosperous in one's personal or professional life.
The idiom "do well for oneself" is commonly used in English-speaking countries, including the United States. It is an idiomatic expression that originated from the combination of the words "do," "well," and "oneself."
The idiom "do ill" means to cause harm or injury, to act in a harmful or negative way.
The idiom "do ill" refers to causing harm or doing something morally wrong or unethical. It is often used in a negative context, showing disapproval or criticism.
One interesting fact about this idiom is its long history. The phrase "doen ille" was used in Middle English with a similar meaning. Over time, it evolved into "do ill" as we know it today.
The idiom "dig one's own grave" means to do something that will ultimately lead to one's own downfall or ruin.
The idiom "die the way one lived" means that a person's death reflects their lifestyle, actions, or choices during their lifetime.
The idiom "die on one's arse" means to fail miserably or to have a plan or endeavor go completely wrong, resulting in no success or progress.
The Mysterious Genesis
Firstly, the idiom "by one's own hand" is commonly used in English to denote someone performing an action themselves, usually with negative consequences. This idiom has been in use for centuries and can be found in a wide range of literary works.
The idiom "by one's own hand" is often used to refer to acts of suicide, where an individual intentionally takes their own life. It is a euphemistic and somewhat poetic way of expressing the act of self-inflicted death, softening the harshness associated with suicide. The phrase can also be used in a broader sense to describe any action or decision made solely by oneself without external influence or assistance.
This idiom carries a somber tone and is often used to convey a sense of personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions. It highlights the agency and autonomy of the individual, emphasizing that they acted without outside coercion or influence. It suggests a deep level of personal reflection and introspection, as the person takes ownership of their actions.
The idiom "by one's own hand" is laden with connotations of personal culpability, regret, and the weight of individual decisions. It underscores the significance of personal agency and the consequences that accompany it.
As with many idioms, "by one's own hand" has metaphorical implications, extending beyond its literal meaning. It can also be interpreted as a metaphor for self-sabotage or self-destruction, highlighting how one's own actions can lead to their downfall or ruin.
While the idiom "by one's own hand" primarily carries a negative connotation, it can also convey a sense of empowerment and self-reliance. It speaks to the agency individuals possess to shape their own lives and make decisions independently.
The idiom "by one's own hand" is related to the idiomatic expression "take matters into one's own hands." This expression suggests that individuals should actively address and solve their problems without relying on others to do it for them. It emphasizes the importance of personal agency and initiative.
The phrase "burn one's fingers" is another idiom related to "by one's own hand." It refers to the negative consequences that may result from one's own actions or decisions. It warns individuals that they may suffer harm or experience negative outcomes by engaging in risky or ill-advised behavior.
The idiom "dig one's own grave" also shares a connection with "by one's own hand." It suggests that individuals can bring about their own downfall or ruin through their actions or decisions. It serves as a cautionary tale, warning against acts that may lead to negative consequences or irreversible damage.
The idiom "be one's own worst enemy" is closely linked to "by one's own hand." It denotes individuals who, through their own actions or decisions, act as a hindrance or obstacle to their own success or well-being. It highlights the impact of self-destructive behavior and the negative consequences that can result from it.
Finally, "by one's lights" is a related idiom that means "according to one's own understanding or perspective." It suggests that individuals should act based on their own judgment and beliefs, rather than relying on the opinions or expectations of others. It emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and self-trust in decision-making.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "by one's own hand" can be used in a sentence:
- He took his own life by his own hand.
- The artist created a masterpiece by her own hand.
- She wanted to see the project through to the end, so she completed it by her own hand.
The idiom "by one's own hand" is commonly used to mean doing something oneself, usually with a sense of personal responsibility or involvement. It is often used to refer to an individual taking their own life, as in the first example. However, it can also be used more generally to describe doing something independently or using one's own skills and abilities, as seen in the second and third examples.
More "Suicide" idioms
