Search
Kangaroo court
01
an unofficial court that does not follow the rules and usually punishes people without giving them a fair trial
Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "kangaroo court" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the idiom "kangaroo court" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-19th century. The term draws upon the behavior and reputation of kangaroos, which are known for their hopping and unpredictable movements. It is commonly used to criticize makeshift or informal courts that lack proper legal procedures and impartiality.
kangaroo court
n
Example
The international community condemned the dictator's regime for their kangaroo courts during that period.
The defendant's lawyer argued that the trial was a kangaroo court due to the biased judge.
The employees believe that the disciplinary hearings at their workplace are akin to a kangaroo court.
The activists claim that the government is running a kangaroo court to suppress dissenting voices.
I fear that the company's internal investigation might devolve into a kangaroo court if proper safeguards are not in place.
