name names
Filed under N
In a sentence
- During the trial, the witness was asked to name names and identify the individuals involved in the crime.
- In order to receive a reduced sentence, the defendant agreed to cooperate with the authorities and name names of his accomplices.
- The journalist promised to protect the anonymity of the source, but still managed to name names in her article.
Where it comes from and how it is used
When someone "names and shames" others, they are bringing attention to their wrongdoing in order to hold them accountable or change their behavior. This can be done through various means, such as publishing their names, sharing evidence or testimonies, or publicly denouncing their actions. The goal is to publicly shame and embarrass the individuals in question, often in the hopes of deterring similar actions in the future.
Similar to "name names", "name and shame" can have both positive and negative consequences. On one hand, it can be a powerful tool for social justice and promoting accountability. By exposing individuals who engage in harmful or unethical behavior, it can help create a safer and more transparent society. On the other hand, it can also lead to unintended consequences, such as harassment or the potential for false accusations.
When someone "tells tales", they are typically sharing information, especially about someone else's misbehavior or secrets, with the intention of causing trouble or gaining an advantage. This can be seen in various contexts, from childhood tales of playground drama to adults engaging in office gossip. The act of "telling tales" is often associated with seeking attention or stirring up controversy.
While "name names" and "name and shame" focus on identifying specific individuals for a particular purpose, "tell tales" is more about spreading information and possibly incriminating others without a specific goal in mind. It is important to note that "tell tales" can sometimes be considered negative or harmful, as it involves sharing potentially unverified or damaging information without proper context or consequence.
Neighbouring idioms
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.