What does “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” mean?

"Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free" means that the law often punishes the weak or the insignificant while the powerful and influential escape punishment.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The government claims to uphold justice, but in reality, laws catch flies, but let hornets go free. The wealthy and powerful often evade punishment.

Example

The legal system is supposed to be fair, but it seems that laws catch flies, but let hornets go free. The rich and influential often escape consequences.

Example

It's frustrating to see how laws catch flies, but let hornets go free. The vulnerable are punished while the powerful get away with their actions

Is “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” 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 “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” effectively in context?

You can use "Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free." to criticize a legal system or situation where the weak or insignificant are punished while the powerful and influential escape punishment. For example, if you're discussing a case where a wealthy individual got away with a crime while a less privileged person faced severe consequences, you might say, 'It's a clear example of how laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.'

1Social Justice
Despite overwhelming evidence, the corrupt politician was acquitted, while the innocent whistleblower was sentenced. It's a classic case of how laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.
2Legal System
The legal system claims to be impartial, but time and again, we see how laws catch flies, but let hornets go free. The marginalized and vulnerable are disproportionately targeted and punished.
3Inequality
In a society where wealth and power dictate outcomes, it's no surprise that laws catch flies, but let hornets go free. The disadvantaged are left to suffer the consequences while the privileged remain untouched.

Similar phrases to “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.”:

The law is an ass

This phrase means that the law can be foolish or unjust.

Example

The judge's decision was completely unfair. It just goes to show that the law is an ass.

Might makes right

This phrase means that those with power or strength can do whatever they want, regardless of what is fair or just.

Example

In this society, it often feels like might makes right. The powerful can get away with anything.

Justice is blind

This phrase means that justice should be impartial and unbiased.

Example

We hope for a legal system where justice is blind, but too often we see favoritism and inequality.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free." is unknown.

Is “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free." is not as common in everyday conversation as some other proverbs, but it is still used occasionally, especially in discussions about social justice, inequality, and the legal system.

What tone does “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” have?

"Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free." conveys a tone of criticism and frustration. It highlights the unfairness and imbalance in a legal system or situation where the weak are punished while the powerful escape consequences.

Can “Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free." can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a thought-provoking expression that challenges the fairness of a legal system or situation. You can use it in conversations with friends, colleagues, or in more formal discussions about social justice or inequality.

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

The phrase is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'It's disappointing to see how laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'Laws catch flies, but let hornets go free.' to express frustration or criticism.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

injustice prevails
the system is rigged
unequal justice
double standards
selective enforcement

Antonyms

impartiality
equal justice
fair treatment
equality before the law
justice for all