What does “Pot calling the kettle black” mean?
"Pot calling the kettle black" means criticizing someone for a fault that you have yourself.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He accused her of being lazy, but it's just the pot calling the kettle black.
Example
She always complains about people being late, but she's often late herself. It's a classic case of pot calling the kettle black.
Example
They criticized the company for their unethical practices, but their own business practices are questionable. It's a clear example of pot calling the kettle black
Is “Pot calling the kettle black” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pot calling the kettle black” 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 “Pot calling the kettle black” effectively in context?
You can use "Pot calling the kettle black" to point out hypocrisy or irony in a situation where someone is criticizing another person for a fault that they themselves have. It emphasizes the idea that the person making the criticism is just as guilty of the same fault. For example, if someone is constantly complaining about others being lazy, but they themselves are often lazy, you could say, 'It's just the pot calling the kettle black.'
- 1Friendship
He accused her of being lazy, but it's just the pot calling the kettle black because he's lazy too.
- 2Workplace
She always complains about people being late, but she's often late herself. It's a classic case of pot calling the kettle black.
- 3Politics
They criticized the company for their unethical practices, but their own business practices are questionable. It's a clear example of pot calling the kettle black.
Similar phrases to “Pot calling the kettle black”:
Double standards
Applying different sets of rules or expectations to different people or situations
Example
He always criticizes others for being late, but he himself is often late. It's a clear case of double standards.
Behaving in a way that contradicts one's own stated beliefs or values
Example
She lectures others about healthy eating, but she regularly indulges in junk food. It's hypocritical.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pot calling the kettle black” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Pot calling the kettle black" can be traced back to the 17th century. During that time, both pots and kettles were made of cast iron and would turn black when heated over a fire. The phrase was used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone criticizes another person for a fault or behavior that they themselves possess.
Is “Pot calling the kettle black” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Pot calling the kettle black" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to highlight hypocrisy or irony in a situation where someone is criticizing another person for a fault that they themselves possess.
What tone does “Pot calling the kettle black” have?
"Pot calling the kettle black" conveys a tone of criticism and irony. It is often used to point out the hypocrisy of someone who is quick to judge others while ignoring their own faults.
Can “Pot calling the kettle black” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Pot calling the kettle black" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It can be used in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, 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, 'He accused her of being lazy, but it's just the pot calling the kettle black.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Pot calling the kettle black!' to imply hypocrisy.
