Beyond the pale

Meaning

The idiom "beyond the pale" means something that is very strange, unusual or unexpected. It can also mean something that is extreme or beyond what is considered acceptable or normal. This expression has a slightly negative connotation and often implies disapproval or unease.

Usage

• The new CEO's leadership style was so radical, it was beyond the pale for many employees to accept.
• The city council's decision to close down the park was met with outrage by the community, as they felt it was beyond the pale.
• The comedian's jokes were so inappropriate, I couldn't help but feel uncomfortable. It was beyond the pale.
• The weather forecast predicted a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which was beyond the pale for most people.
• The new restaurant on Main Street had a menu that was beyond the pale, with dishes like "roasted rat" and "fermented fish."

Roots and History

The idiom "beyond the pale" dates back to medieval times when "the pale" referred to the boundary between England and Scotland. The phrase "beyond the pale" originally meant something that was beyond this border, and therefore outside of English control. Over time, the phrase evolved to mean anything that was extreme or abnormal.

Synonyms in English

• Outlandish
• Extreme
• Abnormal
• Unusual
• Bizarre

Synonyms in other languages

• 不可思考的 (Chinese) - This means something that is impossible to imagine or understand.
• 剧烈的 (Spanish) - This means something that is intense or dramatic.
• 诡生的 (Japanese) - This means something that is supernatural or mysterious.
• 奇怪的 (French) - This means something that is strange or unusual.
• السيقرة المجهودة (Arabic) - This means something that is difficult to achieve or accomplish.

Similar Idioms

• in bed with

• shadowban

• bug-eyed