Give the Devil His Due Idiom – Meaning and Example Usage in Sentences
Introduction to ‘Give the Devil His Due’
Hello everyone! Welcome to another session on English idiomatic expressions. Today, we’ll be delving into the intriguing idiom ‘Give the Devil His Due.’ This idiom has an interesting history and is widely used in the English language. So, let’s get started!
The Meaning Behind the Idiom
When we say ‘Give the Devil His Due,’ we’re essentially acknowledging someone’s negative qualities or actions, but also recognizing their positive attributes or accomplishments. It’s about being fair and objective, even when dealing with someone we may not particularly like or agree with.
Exploring the Origin
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to medieval times. In those days, the Devil was often depicted as a cunning and powerful figure. However, it was also believed that he had some redeeming qualities. This concept of acknowledging both the negative and positive aspects of the Devil’s character eventually gave rise to the idiom we use today.
Usage in Everyday Conversations
The idiom ‘Give the Devil His Due’ can be used in various contexts. Let’s consider an example: Imagine you’re discussing a controversial political figure. You may not agree with their policies, but you can still acknowledge their charisma or leadership skills. In such a situation, you might say, ‘I don’t agree with his views, but I must give the Devil his due, he knows how to rally a crowd.’ This shows that you’re being fair and objective in your assessment.
Similar Idioms and Expressions
In the realm of idiomatic expressions, we often come across phrases that convey a similar sentiment. Some examples include ‘Every cloud has a silver lining,’ ‘Take the good with the bad,’ and ‘There’s two sides to every coin.’ While these idioms may not have the exact same meaning, they all emphasize the importance of considering both positive and negative aspects.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our discussion on ‘Give the Devil His Due,’ it’s evident that this idiom holds a valuable lesson. It reminds us to be fair and objective, even when dealing with individuals or situations we may not fully agree with. So, the next time you encounter a conflicting viewpoint, remember to give the Devil his due. Thank you for joining today’s session, and until next time, keep exploring the fascinating world of idioms!