What does “Hold your hands up” mean?
"Hold your hands up" means admitting that you are responsible for something.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the mistake was discovered, he had to hold his hands up and apologize.
Example
The CEO decided to hold his hands up and take full responsibility for the company's failure.
Example
Instead of blaming others, it's important to hold your hands up and acknowledge your own mistakes
Is “Hold your hands up” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hold your hands up” 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 “Hold your hands up” effectively in context?
You can use "Hold your hands up" to encourage someone to take responsibility for their actions or admit their mistakes. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's own faults and being accountable. For example, if a friend is trying to shift the blame onto others, you might say, 'Instead of pointing fingers, it's better to hold your hands up and admit your part in the situation.'
- 1Apology
After the mistake was discovered, he had to hold his hands up and apologize.
- 2Leadership
The CEO decided to hold his hands up and take full responsibility for the company's failure.
- 3Accountability
Instead of blaming others, it's important to hold your hands up and acknowledge your own mistakes.
Similar phrases to “Hold your hands up”:
Own up
To admit or take responsibility for something
Example
He finally owned up to his mistake and apologized.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hold your hands up” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hold your hands up" is unknown.
Is “Hold your hands up” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Hold your hands up" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to encourage honesty, accountability, and taking responsibility for one's actions.
What tone does “Hold your hands up” have?
"Hold your hands up" conveys a tone of honesty and accountability. It is usually used in a supportive context to encourage someone to admit their mistakes or take ownership of their actions.
Can “Hold your hands up” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "hold your hands up" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of admitting responsibility. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as professional meetings or discussions.
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, 'He had to hold his hands up and apologize for his mistake.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "hold your hands up"!' to imply the need to take responsibility.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- admit guilt
- take the blame
- acknowledge fault
- accept culpability
- confess wrongdoing
Antonyms
- shift the blame
- deny responsibility
- avoid accountability
- evade culpability
- refuse to admit fault
