What does “Not my brother's keeper” mean?
"Not my brother's keeper" means that you are not responsible for someone else's actions or well-being.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I can't control what he does, I'm not my brother's keeper.
Example
She's old enough to take care of herself, I'm not my brother's keeper.
Example
I have my own problems to deal with, I can't be not my brother's keeper
Is “Not my brother's keeper” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Not my brother's keeper” 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 “Not my brother's keeper” effectively in context?
You can use "Not my brother's keeper" to assert that you are not responsible for someone else's actions or well-being. It emphasizes personal boundaries and the idea that individuals should take responsibility for themselves. For example, if a friend asks you to cover for their mistakes at work, you might say, 'I'm sorry, but I'm not my brother's keeper. They need to take responsibility for their own actions.'
- 1Family
When her sister asked her to lend her money again, she firmly replied, 'I love you, but I'm not my brother's keeper. You need to learn to manage your finances.'
- 2Friendship
When her friend expected her to always be available to solve their problems, she explained, 'I care about you, but I'm not my brother's keeper. You need to find your own solutions.'
- 3Work
When her colleague tried to shift the blame onto her, she confidently stated, 'I'm not my brother's keeper. I did my part, and you need to take responsibility for your own mistakes.'
Similar phrases to “Not my brother's keeper”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Not my brother's keeper” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Not my brother's keeper" can be traced back to the biblical story of Cain and Abel. In the story, after Cain kills his brother Abel, God asks him where Abel is. Cain responds with this phrase, implying that he is not responsible for his brother's well-being or whereabouts.
Is “Not my brother's keeper” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Not my brother's keeper" is not as common in everyday conversation compared to other expressions. However, it is still used to assert personal boundaries and individual responsibility in certain situations.
What tone does “Not my brother's keeper” have?
"Not my brother's keeper" conveys a tone of assertiveness and independence. It is often used to establish personal boundaries and assert that individuals should take responsibility for their own actions and well-being.
Can “Not my brother's keeper” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Not my brother's keeper" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a straightforward expression that conveys the idea of personal responsibility. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions or professional correspondence.
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, 'I can't control what he does, I'm "not my brother's keeper".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm "not my brother's keeper"' to imply that you are not responsible for someone else's actions or well-being.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- not responsible for someone else
- not accountable for others
- not obligated to take care of others
- not in charge of others
Antonyms
- responsible for someone else
- accountable for others
- obligated to take care of others
- in charge of others
