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Stool pigeon
01
pombo de engodo, pombo isca
a dummy pigeon used to decoy others
02
informante, espião
a person sent into a group as a spy to report on its activities
Idiom
Informal
Old useWhat is the origin of the idiom "stool pigeon" and when to use it?
The idiom "stool pigeon" originated in the 19th century and is used to refer to a person who acts as an informant or betrayer, particularly in criminal contexts. The term finds its roots in the practice of trapping pigeons by placing a stool or decoy bird to attract them. This idiom carries a negative connotation, suggesting duplicity and disloyalty in one's actions.
Example
The undercover detective used a known criminal as a " stool pigeon " to gather evidence against the gang.
The disgruntled employee acted as a " stool pigeon " and reported his coworkers' unauthorized activities to the management.
The con artist posed as a fellow scam victim to gain the trust of others and later turned into a " stool pigeon " for the police.
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