Give the devil his due

Meaning

"Give the devil his due" is an idiom that means giving credit or recognition to someone, even if they are not entirely deserving of it. It's a way of acknowledging that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and that it's important to recognize both. The figurative meaning is similar to the literal one - it's an expression of fairness and respect for someone, regardless of their flaws or shortcomings.

Usage

• Despite his many mistakes, John deserves credit for his hard work on the project. (Literal)
• It's not fair to criticize him without giving him a chance to explain himself. (Figurative)
• We need to give the devil his due when it comes to his contributions to the team. (Literal)
• She may be difficult to work with, but we can't deny her talent. (Figurative)
• We should give credit where credit is due - even if it's just for the effort. (Literal)

Roots and History

The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century in England. One theory suggests that the phrase comes from a story about a group of travelers who were lost in the wilderness. They stumbled upon a local inn and asked for food and shelter. The innkeeper refused them, saying that they didn't deserve it because they were evil people. The travelers went on to find help elsewhere and eventually returned to the inn. When they encountered the innkeeper again, he offered them food and drink, and the travelers replied, "Give the devil his due." Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved slightly to include more general recognition of someone's strengths or talents, regardless of their flaws. It's now commonly used in a variety of contexts to acknowledge someone's accomplishments and contributions, even if they don't perfectly meet one's expectations.

Synonyms in English

• Acknowledge: Recognize the good qualities or achievements of someone, regardless of their flaws.
• Credit: Give praise or recognition for someone's accomplishments.
• Fair play: Treat everyone equally and give them their due credit.
• Respect: Show consideration and courtesy towards someone, even if they are not entirely deserving of it.
• Honor: Recognize someone's achievements and talents, even if they don't meet your expectations.

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Dar derecho a quien merece. (Literally: "Give the right to those who deserve it.")
• French: Attribuer ce qui est juste à celui qui le mérite. (Literally: "Attribution of what is just to whoever deserves it.")
• German: Zu Recht dem gerechten einrichten. (Literally: "Assign rightfully to the deserving.")
• Italian: Accordare ciò che si merita a chi ha diritto. (Literally: "Give what is due to those who deserve it.")
• Portuguese: Dar direito ao que merece. (Literally: "Give right to what deserves it.")

Similar Idioms

• go for broke

• get under skin

• Great Scott