Faustian bargain: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘Faustian bargain’ mean?
A "Faustian bargain" refers to a deal or agreement in which a person sacrifices their principles or values in order to achieve power, success, or wealth. The term originates from the character of Faust in German folklore, who made a pact with the devil in exchange for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in for a dime, in for a dollar" means that once you commit to something, you are fully committed and have to see it through to the end, regardless of the consequences or risks involved.
The idiom "horsetrading" refers to the practice of negotiating or bargaining in a shrewd or calculated manner, often involving give-and-take, compromise, and strategic maneuvering to achieve a desired outcome.
The idiom "horsetrade" means to bargain or negotiate, especially in a shrewd or calculating manner, in order to achieve a desired outcome. It is often used in the context of making deals or compromises, where both parties seek to gain an advantage.
A "green handshake" refers to a financial agreement or deal, often occurring in business settings, where a substantial amount of money is paid upfront as a sign of trust or commitment.
The idiom "get taken in" means to be deceived or fooled by someone or something. It implies being tricked or misled into believing something that is not true.
The idiom "fucked over" is a vulgar way to describe someone being deceived, betrayed, or treated unfairly by others, usually resulting in negative consequences or harm. It implies a sense of being taken advantage of and often carries strong emotions of anger, frustration, or disappointment.
The idiom "free lunch" refers to something that appears to be given at no cost, but actually comes with hidden or future expenses. It highlights the concept that nothing is truly free and often implies that there is a catch or a trade-off involved.
The idiom "forbidden fruit" refers to something that is desired but prohibited or off-limits, often due to moral or societal reasons.
"Fool's bargain" is an idiom that refers to a deal or agreement that appears to be advantageous at first, but ultimately turns out to be a mistake or a bad decision.
Hidden Consequences
The idiom "Faustian bargain" is derived from the German legend of Faust, a scholar who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. In Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's play "Faust," Faust is dissatisfied with his own life and seeks fulfillment through supernatural means. He strikes a deal with the devil, Mephistopheles, selling his soul for limitless power and pleasure. This pact is often described as a "Faustian bargain," representing a dangerous agreement with dire consequences.
The idiom "Faustian bargain" is deeply rooted in Western culture and is commonly used to describe situations where someone makes morally compromising decisions in pursuit of personal gain or short-term benefits. It implies a pact or agreement that may lead to significant sacrifices or the surrender of one's integrity.
Within the context of the idiom, the term "Faustian" refers to the archetype of Faust, where individuals are willing to make unethical compromises for personal advancement. It suggests a thirst for power, knowledge, or pleasure at any cost, even if it means sacrificing one's own moral principles.
The phrase "Faustian bargain" is often used in political, business, or societal discussions to criticize individuals, organizations, or systems for engaging in activities where the pursuit of short-term gains supersedes long-term consequences or ethical considerations. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential repercussions that may arise from such actions. This idiom highlights the dangers of compromising one's principles for personal advancement.
The idiom "Faustian bargain" is related to the idiom "fool's bargain," which refers to a deal or agreement that is foolish or disadvantageous for one party involved. While a "fool's bargain" may not involve selling one's soul like a "Faustian bargain," it shares the element of making a bad decision in pursuit of personal gain.
Another related idiom is "cut a deal," which means to negotiate and reach an agreement with someone. It can imply the willingness to make compromises or trade-offs, similar to the idea of bargaining in a "Faustian bargain."
"a good deal" is yet another related idiom. It refers to a situation or agreement that is advantageous or beneficial. In contrast to a "Faustian bargain," which often leads to negative consequences, "a good deal" implies a positive outcome or advantage.
The idiom "angle for farthings" is also related. "Farthings" were small coins in the United Kingdom, and "to angle for farthings" refers to using cunning or sly tactics to obtain small or insignificant gains. This idiom connects to the idea of making manipulative bargains or agreements, similar to the nature of a "Faustian bargain."
The idiom "Faustian bargain" captures the notion of making a perilous pact with negative or destructive outcomes. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal desires and ethical responsibility, highlighting the potential consequences of sacrificing one's integrity for short-term gains. Although originating from a centuries-old legend, its resonance in modern society showcases the enduring power of idiomatic expressions to capture universal moral dilemmas.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "Faustian bargain" can be used in a sentence:
- He made a Faustian bargain with the devil to gain wealth and fame, but it ultimately cost him his soul.
- The politician was accused of making a Faustian bargain with corporate lobbyists in exchange for their financial support.
- In the novel, the protagonist makes a Faustian bargain with a supernatural being, trading his morality for unlimited power.
More "Deals" idioms
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