bastardly gullion: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘bastardly gullion’ mean?

The idiom bastardly gullion refers to a person who is deceitful, cunning, and untrustworthy. They often manipulate others for personal gain without any regard for the consequences of their actions.

Idiom Explorer

The Elusive Definition

Bastardly gullion is an idiom that originated in the 17th century and is still commonly used today. It is used to describe someone who is deceitful, treacherous, or cunning in a particularly malicious or underhanded manner. The term "bastardly" suggests that the person being referred to is acting in a dishonest, dishonorable, or immoral way, while the adjective "gullion" reinforces the negative connotations associated with the idiom. Despite not having a clear origin, the idiom has retained its relevance and usage over the centuries, appearing in literature and everyday conversations.

One related idiom to "bastardly gullion" is "pigeon." When someone is referred to as a "pigeon", it means they are being taken advantage of or deceived by another person. This idiom is similar to "bastardly gullion" in that it highlights dishonest or deceitful behavior. Both idioms convey a sense of disapproval towards individuals who engage in underhanded actions or manipulate others for their own gain.

Another related idiom is "artful dodger." This phrase refers to someone who is cunning and skilled at avoiding trouble or evading responsibility. Similarly, "bastardly gullion" describes someone who is deceitful or treacherous. Both idioms emphasize the cunning and manipulative nature of the individuals being referred to.

He displayed a bastardly behavior during the game.

A "backgammon player" is also related to the idiom "bastardly gullion." In backgammon, players strategize and make calculated moves to outwit their opponents. Just like a "bastardly gullion," a skilled backgammon player demonstrates cunning and deceitful behavior as they aim to gain an advantage and win the game.

When someone is referred to as a "bad actor," it means they are not trustworthy or are behaving in a dishonest or manipulative manner. This idiom shares the same negative connotations as "bastardly gullion" and is used to express strong disapproval towards individuals who engage in deceitful or immoral behavior.

Lastly, the idiom "cat that ate the canary" is also related to "bastardly gullion." This phrase describes someone who has a guilty or self-satisfied look, as if they have done something wrong but are pleased about it. Just like a "bastardly gullion," a person described as a "cat that ate the canary" exhibits duplicitous or underhanded behavior.

The idiom "bastardly gullion" is an expression used to describe someone who is deceitful, treacherous, or cunning in a particularly malicious or underhanded manner. It has its origins in the 17th century and is still commonly used today. Other idioms such as "pigeon," "artful dodger," "backgammon player," "bad actor," and "cat that ate the canary" share similar connotations and are used to express disapproval towards individuals who engage in dishonest or manipulative behavior. These idioms illustrate the enduring fascination with characters and actions that challenge societal norms and moral boundaries.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom bastardly gullion can be used in a sentence:

  1. He acted like a bastardly gullion when he betrayed his friends.
  2. The CEO's decision to cut employees' benefits was a bastardly gullion move.
  3. She was known for her bastardly gullion behavior, always causing trouble.

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