What does “Let the devil take the hindmost” mean?
"Let the devil take the hindmost" means to prioritize oneself and not worry about others.
What context can I use the in?
Example
In this cutthroat industry, it's all about letting the devil take the hindmost.
Example
He's always looking out for number one, letting the devil take the hindmost.
Example
When it comes to survival, it's every man for himself, let the devil take the hindmost
Is “Let the devil take the hindmost” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Let the devil take the hindmost” 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 “Let the devil take the hindmost” effectively in context?
You can use "Let the devil take the hindmost" to describe a situation where someone prioritizes themselves and doesn't care about others. It implies a selfish or self-centered attitude. For example, if someone is only concerned about their own success in a competitive industry, you might say, 'In this cutthroat industry, it's all about letting the devil take the hindmost.'
- 1Work
He's always looking out for number one, letting the devil take the hindmost.
- 2Survival
When it comes to survival, it's every man for himself, let the devil take the hindmost.
- 3Competition
In this cutthroat industry, it's all about letting the devil take the hindmost.
Similar phrases to “Let the devil take the hindmost”:
Self-preservation
The act of protecting oneself from harm or danger
Example
In this dangerous environment, it's all about self-preservation.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Let the devil take the hindmost” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Let the devil take the hindmost" is unknown.
Is “Let the devil take the hindmost” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Let the devil take the hindmost" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more likely to be encountered in literature or formal discussions about ethics and morality.
What tone does “Let the devil take the hindmost” have?
"Let the devil take the hindmost" conveys a tone of indifference or disregard for others. It suggests a lack of empathy or concern for the well-being of others.
Can “Let the devil take the hindmost” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Let the devil take the hindmost" is more formal in nature. It is not commonly used in casual conversations and may be seen as old-fashioned or archaic.
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, 'In this cutthroat industry, it's all about letting the devil take the hindmost.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let the devil take the hindmost!' to imply a self-centered attitude.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- prioritize oneself
- put oneself first
- be self-centered
- be selfish
- think only of oneself
Antonyms
- consider others
- put others first
- be selfless
- think of others before oneself
