last trump: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘last trump’ mean?

The idiom "last trump" refers to a final and decisive event or action, often used in religious or biblical contexts. It suggests a significant and ultimate occurrence that marks the end of something.

Idiom Explorer

Revelatory Explanation

The idiom "last word" shares a similar theme with the concept of the "last trump." Just as the last trumpet signifies a final call or decisive event, the phrase "last word" refers to having the final say in a conversation or argument. It denotes a sense of authority, as if the speaker has proclaimed the ultimate truth or conclusion on a particular matter. While the origins of the idiom "last word" are not rooted in religious texts like the "last trump," both expressions convey the idea of finality and the significance placed on the final utterance or act.

The final call for the ultimate trumpet rang out.

Analogous to the idea of the "last trump," the idiom "last thing" implies the final item or action in a series. It is often used to indicate something that should not be forgotten or overlooked, as it represents the culmination or conclusion of a sequence. The phrase "last hurrah" also shares a similar connotation, referring to a final, often celebratory, effort or event before the end of a particular endeavor or chapter. Similarly, the expression "last nail in the coffin" signifies the final and decisive action that leads to the downfall or conclusion of a situation or project. All these idioms highlight the significance attributed to the last element or action within a broader context.

Ultimately, the idiom "last trump" serves as a powerful symbol in Christian theology, representing the final trumpet sounding on Judgment Day. It reflects the belief in the ultimate call to the resurrection and the gathering of the faithful. However, beyond its religious connotations, the phrase also offers a broader narrative on finality and the decisive moments in various aspects of life. Its inclusion in both religious discourse and everyday language underscores the enduring influence of religious imagery and concepts in shaping human thought and expression.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "last trump" can be used in a sentence:

  1. When discussing the end of the world, some people believe that the last trump will signal the return of Jesus.
  2. Even though the company struggled financially, they hoped that their final product would be the last trump to save the business.
  3. In some cultures, winning a prestigious award is considered the last trump of someone's career.

The idiom "last trump" is typically used in a metaphorical sense to refer to a final, decisive event or action that is seen as crucial or game-changing. The specific meaning may vary depending on the context in which it is used, but it usually implies a sense of urgency or significance.

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