Carry the can: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Carry the can” mean?

"Carry the can" means to willingly accept or take the blame or responsibility for something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He always tries to carry the can for his team's mistakes.

Example

The manager decided to carry the can for the failed project.

Example

She was willing to carry the can for her friend's actions

Is “Carry the can” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Carry the can” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Carry the can” effectively in context?

You can use "Carry the Can" to describe someone who takes the blame or responsibility for something, even if they are not directly at fault. It implies a sense of accountability and willingness to accept the consequences. For example, if a team makes a mistake at work, and one person takes the blame on behalf of the entire team, you can say, 'He always tries to carry the can for his team's mistakes.'

• 1. Work

  The manager decided to carry the can for the failed project.

• 2. Friendship

  She was willing to carry the can for her friend's actions.

• 3. Family

  Despite not being responsible, he chose to carry the can for his sibling's misbehavior.

Similar phrases to “Carry the can”:

Take the fall

To accept blame or responsibility for something, often on behalf of others

Example

He took the fall for his team's mistake.

Shoulder the burden

To take on the responsibility or blame for something

Example

She willingly shouldered the burden of the failed project.

Bear the blame

To accept responsibility for something, especially when it's negative or unfavorable

Example

He bore the blame for the company's financial losses.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Carry the can” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Carry the Can" is unknown.

Is “Carry the can” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Carry the Can" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone willingly takes the blame or responsibility for something, whether it's at work, in relationships, or within a family.

What tone does “Carry the can” have?

"Carry the Can" conveys a tone of accountability and selflessness. It suggests that the person taking the blame is willing to face the consequences and protect others from harm or criticism.

Can “Carry the can” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Carry the Can" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a sense of responsibility and accountability. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He decided to carry the can and accept the consequences.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "carry the can"!' to imply taking responsibility for a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• face the music
• take the blame
• accept responsibility
• own up
• stand up and be counted

Antonyms

• pass the buck
• avoid responsibility
• shift the blame
• deny involvement
• evade accountability