take one for the team: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘take one for the team’ mean?
The idiomatic phrase "take one for the team" means to sacrifice oneself or endure something unpleasant or difficult for the benefit of others or a larger group. It implies selflessness, teamwork, and putting the needs of the group before one's own.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "to die for" means something is extremely desirable or excellent, to the point that one is willing to give up everything for it. It expresses a strong longing or admiration for something or someone.
The idiom "team up" means to collaborate or work together with others, usually with the goal of achieving a common purpose or objective.
The idiom "take on faith" means to believe or accept something without evidence or proof.
It implies trusting someone or something blindly, without questioning or doubting.
It often applies to beliefs, ideas, or statements that are not easily verifiable.
The idiom "take one's pick" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It means to choose freely from a selection of options or opportunities.
This idiom comes from the verb "pick," which means to select or choose. When someone is told to "take their pick," it means they can choose whichever option they prefer.
The idiom "take one's chance" means to seize or accept an opportunity or risk without knowing the outcome. It implies a willingness to try despite the uncertainty or potential for failure.
The idiom "take on" means to assume responsibility or an undertaking. It can also mean to confront or challenge someone or something.
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 "take it upon oneself" means to assume responsibility or take on a task without being asked or obligated to do so.
The idiom "take its toll" means that something has a negative impact or effect on someone or something, usually resulting in damage, exhaustion, or loss. It implies that there are consequences or consequences to be paid for a particular action or situation.
The idiom "take it out on" means to direct anger or frustration towards someone or something that is not directly related to the source of those emotions. It is a way of venting or releasing negative feelings on a person or object that is convenient or accessible.
The Team Player
"take one for the team" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in American English. It is often used in a sporting or team context to imply sacrificing one's own interest or well-being for the benefit of the larger group or team. This call to selflessness highlights the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
The idiom's exact origin and history are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century and gained popularity in the world of sports. It embodies the spirit of team sports, where individuals prioritize the success of the team over personal glory.
When someone is asked to "take one for the team," it means they are being called upon to endure hardship or make a sacrifice for the collective benefit. This can take various forms depending on the context. For example, in a game or competition, a player might be asked to take a penalty or play a defensive role that is less glamorous but necessary for the team's success. Outside the realm of sports, the idiom can be used in a broader sense to encompass situations where an individual takes on an unpleasant task or accepts a disadvantage for the greater good.
The idiom often serves as a way to recognize and appreciate individuals who display selflessness and put the needs of the team or group ahead of their own. By telling someone to "take one for the team," it acknowledges their sacrifice and reinforces the idea that working together and supporting each other leads to overall success.
Similar to the phrase "take a bullet," which alludes to the act of sacrificing oneself to protect others, "take one for the team" emphasizes the selflessness required to prioritize the collective over individual needs. Both idioms demonstrate the willingness to endure hardship or negative consequences for the benefit of others.
The phrase "take on" also relates to the concept of "taking one for the team." "Taking on" a challenge or responsibility implies accepting a task or role that may be demanding or difficult. Similarly, when someone takes one for the team, they willingly accept a sacrifice or hardship that benefits the larger group.
Another related idiom is "take it upon oneself," which means to assume responsibility or take action without being asked or assigned. When someone takes one for the team, they are taking it upon themselves to make a sacrifice or endure hardship for the benefit of the team or group. This highlights the individual's initiative and willingness to go beyond what is expected.
"take one's chance" is also related to the idiom "take one for the team." Taking one's chance refers to seizing an opportunity or risking potential negative outcomes in pursuit of a desired result. Similarly, when someone takes one for the team, they are taking a chance by sacrificing their own interests or well-being for the benefit of the larger group.
Lastly, the idiom "take its toll" can be related to "taking one for the team." "Take its toll" refers to the negative or damaging effects that prolonged stress, hardship, or exertion can have on a person or entity. When an individual repeatedly takes one for the team, it can "take its toll" on their own well-being or personal interests. However, they are willing to endure these effects for the greater good of the team or group.
While "take one for the team" is commonly used and understood in American English, its meaning and usage may differ in other cultures or languages. It is important to consider the specific context and cultural nuances when using or interpreting idiomatic expressions.
Take one for the team encapsulates the essence of teamwork and collective success. It celebrates those who are willing to go beyond their personal interests or comfort zones for the benefit of the group. This idiom serves as a reminder of the values of unity, sacrifice, and collaboration, which are crucial not only in sports but also in various aspects of life. The mere existence of such an idiom reflects the human desire for collective achievement and the recognition of those who are willing to step up and take one for the team.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "take one for the team" can be used in a sentence:
- After their star player was injured, John volunteered to take one for the team and play in his place.
- Even though it was an unpleasant task, Sarah decided to take one for the team and stay late to finish the project.
- During the game, the goalkeeper dove to block a shot and took one for the team by saving the goal.
More "Sacrifice" idioms
