Blood on one’s hands is a phrase that has been used for centuries and is often associated with guilt or responsibility for a wrongdoing. It is a powerful metaphor that has been used in literature, politics, and everyday conversation. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of blood on one’s hands.
Definitions
The phrase blood on one’s hands refers to being responsible for a wrongful act, especially if it results in harm or death. It can also refer to the guilt and shame that comes with committing such an act. The phrase is often used to describe the actions of individuals who have caused harm to others, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
Origin
The origin of the phrase blood on one’s hands is unclear. It is believed to have originated in ancient times when people believed that the blood of a victim would stain the hands of the perpetrator, making them guilty of the crime. The phrase has been used in literature and other forms of art for centuries, and its meaning has evolved over time.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The phrase blood on one’s hands is defined differently in different dictionaries. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines it as “responsibility for a crime or wrongdoing.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the guilt of having caused injury or death to another person.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “responsibility for a bad situation or for something that has gone wrong.”
Associations
The phrase blood on one’s hands is often associated with guilt, shame, and responsibility. It is also associated with violence, crime, and death. The phrase is often used in political and social contexts to hold individuals or groups accountable for their actions.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for blood on one’s hands, including guilt, responsibility, culpability, and accountability. These words all convey a sense of wrongdoing and the need for the individual to take responsibility for their actions.
Antonyms
The antonyms of blood on one’s hands include innocence, blamelessness, and exoneration. These words convey a sense of being free from guilt or responsibility for a wrongdoing.
The same root words
The phrase blood on one’s hands has no root words, as it is a metaphorical expression that has evolved over time.
Example Sentences
- The politician had blood on his hands for the deaths of innocent civilians.
- The CEO of the company had blood on her hands for the environmental damage caused by the company’s operations.
- The soldier felt the weight of the blood on his hands after he had killed an enemy combatant.
- The doctor had blood on his hands after he failed to save a patient’s life.
- The criminal had blood on his hands for the murder of his victim.
In conclusion, blood on one’s hands is a powerful metaphor that has been used for centuries to describe guilt, responsibility, and the need for individuals to take ownership of their actions. The phrase has evolved over time and is now commonly used in political and social contexts to hold individuals and groups accountable for their actions. It is a reminder that actions have consequences and that individuals must take responsibility for their role in causing harm or wrongdoing.