have blood on one’s hands: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘have blood on one's hands’ mean?
The idiom have blood on one's hands means to be responsible for someone's death or to have directly caused harm to someone.
Idiom Explorer
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The idiom "hold someone's feet to the fire" is a commonly used expression in American English, often used to convey the idea of holding someone accountable for their actions or promises. It is believed to have originated in the early 17th century but has evolved in meaning over time.
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The idiom "have someone's blood on one's head" means to be responsible or guilty for causing harm or death to someone.
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The idiom "have one's number on it" is a commonly used phrase in American English. Its meaning can vary depending on the context, but generally, it refers to something being destined for or suited to a specific person or situation.
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The idiom "have one's hands full" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It is often used to indicate that someone is very busy or has a lot to deal with. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the late 16th century, but the exact source is unknown.
The idiom "have one's hand out" means to ask for money or help from someone, usually in a demanding or pushy manner.
The idiom "have one's hand in the till" means to be illegally involved in stealing money from one's own workplace or organization.
The idiom "have one's hand in the till" is commonly used to describe situations where someone is involved in financial dishonesty or embezzlement. It originated in British English as early as the 17th century and has since become a familiar expression in American English and popular culture.
The idiom "have it coming" means to deserve or expect something, usually negative, as a consequence of one's actions or behavior.
The Gruesome Guilt
The idiom "have blood on one's hands" is a vivid expression that signifies being responsible for someone's death or suffering. This longstanding idiom can be traced back to ancient times when having blood on one's hands was associated with guilt and moral responsibility.
One possible origin of this idiom can be found in the story of Cain and Abel in the Bible. In this tale, Cain murders his brother Abel out of jealousy. When God questions him about Abel's whereabouts, Cain famously responds, "Am I my brother's keeper?" This phrase has since become a rhetorical question used to deflect blame or responsibility. The literal act of Cain having blood on his hands from the murder has evolved metaphorically into the idiom "have blood on one's hands."
The idiom gained prominence in literature through the works of William Shakespeare, particularly in Macbeth. Lady Macbeth is haunted by guilt after persuading her husband to commit murder. She frantically tries to wash away the imagined bloodstains from her hands, representing her guilt and complicity in the crime. This portrayal contributed to the association of blood on one's hands with guilt and responsibility.
Over time, "having blood on one's hands" has come to represent various forms of culpability, not limited to physical violence or murder. It can suggest moral responsibility for any action that leads to harm or negative consequences. The idiom is often used in discussions of political leaders or individuals involved in wrongdoing or unethical behavior.
While the idiom is well-established and widely understood, its usage can sometimes be misinterpreted. Context is crucial when interpreting idioms, including "having blood on one's hands." Non-native English speakers or those unfamiliar with the idiom's history may not immediately grasp its figurative meaning and cultural significance.
The idiom "have blood on one's hands" is infused with symbolism and historical context. It evokes a sense of moral responsibility and guilt, originally rooted in biblical narratives and perpetuated through literary works. Its figurative usage extends beyond physical violence to encompass various forms of culpability. This idiom serves as a reminder of the consequences of one's actions, allowing for introspection on personal and societal levels.
Another related idiom is "have someone's blood on one's head." This expression conveys the sense of bearing responsibility for someone's death or the consequences of one's actions. Similar to "having blood on one's hands," it suggests a moral burden and guilt. The idiom emphasizes the personal accountability for the outcome, highlighting the weight on the individual's conscience.
Similarly, the idiom "by one's own hand" shares a common theme with "having blood on one's hands." It refers to someone causing their own death or harm through their actions. This idiom underscores personal responsibility for the consequences of one's choices, leading to tragic outcomes. The phrase signifies the self-inflicted nature of the harm and the role of one's decisions in the outcome.
Additionally, the idiom "fall on one's sword" is related to both "having blood on one's hands" and "by one's own hand." It originated from ancient Rome, where it was a form of honorable suicide for those in positions of power who failed or were disgraced. The phrase has evolved to represent taking responsibility for one's mistakes or failures in a sacrificial manner. It connotes a willingness to face the consequences and bear the blame for one's actions.
The idiom "have blood on one's hands" carries a depth of meaning and historical significance. It represents the concept of being responsible for someone's death or suffering, stemming from biblical narratives and reinforced through literary works. This idiom extends beyond physical violence to encompass various forms of culpability. Understanding the context of idiomatic expressions is crucial, as they may not be immediately apparent to all.
Example usage
- He cannot wash the blood off his hands after committing such a heinous act.
- She will forever have blood on her hands for covering up the crime.
- The government has blood on its hands for the innocent lives lost during the controversial military operation.
More "Guilt" idioms
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