What does “Sod's law” mean?
"Sod's law" means the idea that if something can go wrong, it will. It refers to the belief that unfortunate or unexpected events are more likely to happen than positive ones.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Of course, Sod's law kicked in and it started raining right after I washed my car.
Example
I was running late for work and, Sod's law, I got stuck in traffic.
Example
I had just finished cooking dinner when, Sod's law, the power went out
Is “Sod's law” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Sod's law” 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 “Sod's law” effectively in context?
You can use "Sod's law" to express frustration or resignation when something goes wrong or doesn't go as planned. It emphasizes the idea that unfortunate events are more likely to happen than positive ones. For example, if a friend complains about always getting stuck in traffic, you might say, 'Yeah, "Sod's law" always seems to kick in when you're in a hurry.'
- 1Daily Life
I was running late for work and, Sod's law, I got stuck in traffic.
- 2Unfortunate Events
Of course, Sod's law kicked in and it started raining right after I washed my car.
- 3Unexpected Circumstances
I had just finished cooking dinner when, Sod's law, the power went out.
Similar phrases to “Sod's law”:
Murphy's Law
The idea that anything that can go wrong will go wrong
Example
I was already running late, and then Murphy's Law kicked in and I got a flat tire.
Believed to bring bad luck or misfortune
Example
Every time I wear this shirt, something goes wrong. I think it's jinxed.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Sod's law” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Sod's law" is unknown.
Is “Sod's law” common in everyday conversation?
"Sod's law" is a relatively common expression in everyday conversation, especially in informal settings. People often use it to express frustration or resignation when things don't go as planned.
What tone does “Sod's law” have?
"Sod's law" conveys a tone of annoyance or resignation. It's often used humorously to acknowledge the inevitability of unfortunate events.
Can “Sod's law” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Sod's law" is primarily used in informal settings and may not be appropriate in formal or professional contexts. It's more commonly used in casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"Sod's law" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Of course, "Sod's law" kicked in and it started raining right after I washed my car.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying '"Sod's law"!' to express frustration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- jinxed
- misfortune
- murphy's law
- bad luck
- unfortunate events
Antonyms
- smooth sailing
- good luck
- fortunate events
- luck is on your side
