get away with murder: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "get away with murder" is commonly used in English to describe someone who escapes punishment for doing something very wrong or immoral. The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a figurative expression that is not meant to be taken literally, as it does not refer to actual criminal activity.

One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom is its connection to criminal cases in which the perpetrator manages to avoid conviction or punishment. This could include instances where there is insufficient evidence to prove guilt or when the legal system fails to hold the person accountable. The phrase "get away with murder" is used metaphorically to highlight the severity of the offense and the perceived injustice of the situation.

Another theory suggests that the idiom may have developed from the idea of getting away with something that is morally reprehensible. The use of the word "murder" in this context emphasizes the seriousness of the wrongdoing, highlighting that the person is evading the consequences of their actions.

In addition to its literal meaning, the idiom "get away with murder" can also be used more broadly to describe situations where people avoid being caught or reprimanded for any kind of wrongdoing, not just criminal acts. This can include actions such as cheating, lying, or breaking rules without facing any repercussions. The phrase conveys a sense of frustration or disbelief that someone could engage in such behavior without facing any consequences.

The idiom "get away with" is closely related to the concept of "get away with murder." It is used to describe the act of avoiding punishment or negative consequences for an action. It can be applied to various scenarios where someone manages to escape accountability. This idiom highlights the perception of unfairness and the ability of certain individuals to avoid the repercussions that others would face in similar circumstances.

Similarly, the idiom "murder will out" is related to the idea of getting away with murder. It expresses the belief that the truth about a wrongdoing, no matter how well-hidden initially, will eventually be revealed or discovered. This idiom reflects the notion that justice cannot be evaded indefinitely and that the truth will eventually come to light.

Another related idiom is the "get out of jail free card." This idiom is borrowed from the popular board game Monopoly, where players can use a "Get Out of Jail Free" card to avoid the consequences of landing on the "Go to Jail" space. In a broader context, this idiom refers to any situation where someone is able to avoid punishment or negative consequences through unconventional means or luck. It implies that there is a way to escape accountability or responsibility without facing the intended repercussions.

The idiom "let off" is also relevant to the concept of getting away with murder. It is commonly used to describe a situation where someone is spared punishment or is not held fully accountable for their actions. This idiom emphasizes the leniency of the situation and implies that the person has been excused or pardoned for their wrongdoing.

Overall, these idioms provide additional context and depth to the concept of getting away with murder. They highlight the unfairness, disbelief, and frustration that individuals may experience when witnessing someone escape the consequences of their actions. Through their varied language and metaphoric expressions, these idioms contribute to the conversation surrounding justice, accountability, and human behavior.