murder will out: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘murder will out’ mean?

The idiom "murder will out" means that a murder or any wrongdoing will eventually be revealed or discovered. This idiom suggests that it is difficult to hide or keep a secret about a serious crime, as the truth will eventually come to light.

Idiom Explorer

Unveiling the Truth

The idiom "murder will out" is a phrase that originates from the English language. It is an old idiom that conveys the idea that a secret, no matter how well hidden or protected, will eventually be discovered or exposed.

The phrase is commonly used to convey the idea that a secret will eventually be discovered or exposed. It applies to various types of wrongdoings or hidden truths, not just literal murder.

The idiom consists of two key elements: "murder" and "will out." In this context, "murder" is often used figuratively. The word "will" emphasizes the certainty or inevitability of the truth eventually surfacing.

When examining the meaning and usage of the idiom "murder will out," it is important to consider the prevalence of crime and secrecy in society. The idiom serves as a reflection of human nature and the belief that wrongdoing or hidden actions cannot remain hidden forever. It conveys a sense of justice and the idea that truth will ultimately prevail.

One possible interpretation of the idiom is that it serves as a warning or cautionary reminder to individuals who engage in nefarious activities. It suggests that no matter how carefully planned or concealed their actions may be, there is always a possibility of discovery and accountability.

Furthermore, the idiom can also be seen as a reassurance to those who have been wronged or are aware of wrongdoing. It offers the hope that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles or powerful individuals, the truth will eventually come to light and justice will be served.

Detectives investigate murder, exposing guilt through crime detection and revelation.

It is worth noting that the idiom "murder will out" has been widely used in literature, including plays, novels, and poems, throughout history. Its enduring popularity and repeated usage in different contexts indicate its universal appeal and relevance.

The idiom "murder will out" conveys the belief that hidden wrongdoings or secrets cannot remain concealed indefinitely. It reflects the inherent human desire for justice and the eventual uncovering of hidden truths. Despite its origin in the English language several centuries ago, the idiom continues to resonate with audiences today, serving both as a cautionary reminder and a source of hope for those seeking justice.

The idiom "come out" is closely related to the phrase "murder will out." "Come out" means to become known or be revealed. It can be applied to situations where a secret or hidden truth is exposed or discovered, just like the main idea behind "murder will out." The idiom suggests that no matter how well hidden or protected a secret may be, it will eventually come to light and be made known to others. This idea aligns perfectly with the essence of "murder will out."

The idiom "get away with murder" is another idiom that can be linked to "murder will out." While "murder will out" alludes to the belief that the truth will eventually be revealed, "get away with murder" suggests the opposite, namely that someone will escape or avoid punishment for a heinous act. However, the two idioms are connected in the sense that even though someone may appear to have gotten away with murder initially, the truth will eventually surface or come to light according to "murder will out."

The idiom "time will tell" shares a similar sentiment with "murder will out." The phrase "time will tell" implies that the truth or outcome of something will become evident or clear as time passes. It suggests that even though the truth may not be immediately apparent, it will eventually come to light or be revealed. This aligns with the main idea of "murder will out" where the belief is that no matter how well concealed a secret is, it will eventually be discovered or exposed in due time.

The idiom "come to light" is essentially synonymous with "murder will out." Both idioms convey the idea that a hidden truth or secret will eventually be uncovered or revealed. "Come to light" implies that something that was previously hidden or unknown will become known or exposed. It aligns perfectly with the notion of "murder will out," which suggests that no matter how well a secret is concealed or protected, it will eventually be revealed or made known to others.

The idiom "see the light of day" can also be related to "murder will out." The phrase "see the light of day" means that something that was previously hidden, suppressed, or kept secret will become known, revealed, or exposed. It suggests that the truth or hidden aspect of something will eventually come to light. This aligns with the essence of "murder will out," where the belief is that a secret or wrongdoing will eventually be discovered or exposed, no matter how well hidden it may be.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "murder will out" can be used in a sentence:

  1. Despite the killer's best efforts to cover up the crime, the evidence finally came to light, proving that indeed, murder will out.
  2. He thought he had gotten away with the murder, but years later, a witness came forward and reminded him that murder will out.
  3. Even if someone manages to keep a secret for a long time, eventually the truth tends to be revealed because, as they say, murder will out.

The idiom "murder will out" suggests that no matter how well someone tries to hide a murder or the truth about it, it will eventually come to light and be revealed. These examples emphasize the inevitability of the truth being uncovered, despite the perpetrator's attempts to keep it hidden.

More "Justice" idioms