What does “Kangaroo court” mean?
"Kangaroo court" means a mock or illegitimate court that does not follow proper legal procedures.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The trial was nothing more than a kangaroo court with a predetermined outcome.
Example
The defendant was denied a fair trial and subjected to a kangaroo court proceeding.
Example
The judge's biased rulings made it clear that it was a kangaroo court rather than a legitimate legal process
Is “Kangaroo court” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Kangaroo court” 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 “Kangaroo court” effectively in context?
You can use "Kangaroo Court" to criticize a legal proceeding or any situation that is unfair, biased, or lacks proper procedures. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom effectively:
- 1Legal Proceedings
The trial was nothing more than a kangaroo court with a predetermined outcome.
- 2Unfair Treatment
The defendant was denied a fair trial and subjected to a kangaroo court proceeding.
- 3Biased Rulings
The judge's biased rulings made it clear that it was a kangaroo court rather than a legitimate legal process.
Similar phrases to “Kangaroo court”:
To force someone into a conviction or guilty plea without proper evidence or procedures
Example
He felt he was being railroaded into confessing to a crime he didn't commit.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Kangaroo court” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Kangaroo Court" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century, possibly inspired by the behavior of kangaroos, known for their unpredictable movements and hopping around. The term is used metaphorically to describe a court that lacks fairness, impartiality, or adherence to proper legal procedures.
Is “Kangaroo court” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Kangaroo Court" is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially when discussing unfair or biased situations. While it may not be as frequently used as some other idioms, it is still well-known and understood by native English speakers.
What tone does “Kangaroo court” have?
"Kangaroo Court" conveys a tone of criticism and disapproval. It is often used to express frustration or outrage at a situation that lacks fairness or proper procedures.
Can “Kangaroo court” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Kangaroo Court" is informal and can be used in casual conversations, as well as in more formal settings when discussing legal matters or situations that involve fairness and justice.
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, 'The trial was nothing more than a "kangaroo court".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's a "kangaroo court"!' to express disapproval of an unfair situation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- mock trial
- unfair hearing
- illegitimate court
- sham proceeding
- biased tribunal
Antonyms
- fair trial
- impartial hearing
- legitimate court
- just proceeding
- neutral tribunal
