English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Take up the cudgels
Meaning
"Take up the cudgels" is an idiom that means to take on or assume a responsibility, task, or role that one has not previously had or agreed to. It can also mean to defend or champion a cause or person. This idiom is derived from the literal meaning of cudgels as sticks used for striking, but it has taken on a metaphorical meaning in contemporary language.
Usage
- She took up the cudgels for her friend when they were being bullied at school.
- He stepped up to take up the cudgels after his brother was injured and couldn't continue playing soccer.
- The company's new CEO has taken up the cudgels to streamline operations and increase profitability.
- I took up the cudgels for my community when they were facing a proposed development project that threatened their way of life.
- She didn't hesitate to take up the cudgels when she saw her neighbor being bullied by their dog. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a positive or negative connotation, depending on the situation and the intentions behind taking on the responsibility.
Roots and History
The idiom "take up the cudgels" originated in medieval England when cudgels were used as weapons for self-defense and combat. The phrase was first recorded in the 14th century and has since taken on a metaphorical meaning to refer to taking on a responsibility or role.
Synonyms in English
- Assuming responsibility
- Shouldering the burden
- Taking charge
- Taking on a task
- Taking up a cause
Synonyms in other languages
- 巡逻（Jiǎnglǜ）- Chinese: This idiom means to patrol or keep watch over an area, person, or situation. It can also refer to taking on a responsibility or role.
- 辩护（Biànhuò）- Chinese: This idiom means to defend or protect something or someone. It can be used metaphorically to refer to championing a cause or idea.
- 承担（Cēnggùan）- Chinese: This idiom means to accept or take on a responsibility or task. It can also refer to taking the lead or initiating an action.
- 辩护（Biànhuò）- French: This idiom means to defend or protect something or someone. It can be used metaphorically to refer to championing a cause or idea.
- 辩护（Biànhuò）- Spanish: This idiom means to defend or protect something or someone. It can be used metaphorically to refer to championing a cause or idea.