What does “Death is the grand leveller.” mean?
"Death is the grand leveller" means that death is the ultimate equalizer, as it affects everyone regardless of their status, wealth, or power. It reminds us that in the face of death, all individuals are equal and no one can escape its inevitability.
What context can I use the in?
Example
No matter how rich or powerful you are, death is the grand leveller. It humbles us all.
Example
In the end, death is the grand leveller. It doesn't discriminate based on social status or wealth.
Example
We may have different lives, but death is the grand leveller that unites us all
Is “Death is the grand leveller.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Death is the grand leveller.” 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 “Death is the grand leveller.” effectively in context?
You can use "Death is the grand leveller" to highlight the fact that death is a common fate that unites all people, regardless of their differences. It serves as a reminder that no matter how rich, powerful, or successful someone may be, they will eventually face the same fate as everyone else. For example, if someone is boasting about their achievements, you might say, 'Remember, in the end, death is the grand leveller that humbles us all.'
- 1Reflection on Life
After witnessing the death of a loved one, she realized that death is the grand leveller that puts everything into perspective.
- 2Equality
No matter how rich or powerful you are, death is the grand leveller. It humbles us all.
- 3Unity
We may have different lives, but death is the grand leveller that unites us all.
Similar phrases to “Death is the grand leveller.”:
Memento mori
A Latin phrase meaning 'remember that you must die,' serving as a reminder of one's mortality
Example
He kept a memento mori on his desk to remind himself of the fleeting nature of life.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Death is the grand leveller.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Death is the grand leveller" can be traced back to the 17th century. It was first used by the English poet and cleric John Donne in his poem 'An Anatomy of the World.' The phrase emphasizes the idea that death is a universal force that equalizes all individuals, regardless of their social status, wealth, or power.
Is “Death is the grand leveller.” common in everyday conversation?
While not as commonly used as some other proverbs, "Death is the grand leveller" is still known and understood by many. It is often used in philosophical discussions or reflections on the nature of life and mortality.
What tone does “Death is the grand leveller.” have?
"Death is the grand leveller" conveys a tone of reflection and acceptance. It acknowledges the inevitability of death and encourages humility in the face of our shared mortality.
Can “Death is the grand leveller.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Death is the grand leveller" is more commonly used in formal or intellectual contexts, such as literature, philosophy, or deep conversations. It may not be as frequently used in everyday conversations, but it can still be understood and appreciated by those familiar with its meaning.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'No matter how successful you become, remember that "death is the grand leveller".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'In the end, "death is the grand leveller".' to imply the idea of equality in death.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- death is the great equalizer
- in death, we are all the same
- death knows no distinction
- death makes us all equal
- death does not discriminate
Antonyms
- life is unfair
- some are more equal than others
- inequality persists in death
- death favors the privileged
- death respects hierarchy
