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to fall on one's sword
01
to take the blame or punishment for something, even if it is not entirely one's fault, in order to protect someone else or to preserve one's honor
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What is the origin of the idiom "fall on one's sword" and when to use it?
The idiom "fall on one's sword" comes from ancient Roman times, where a defeated or disgraced leader would commit suicide by falling on their sword. It has been in use in English since at least the 17th century. It is used to describe a situation where someone takes responsibility for a problem or failure, often at great personal cost.
Example
She is considering falling on her sword and taking the blame for the project's failure.
The CEO fell on his sword and resigned after the company's stock price plummeted.
If the company's reputation is on the line, someone may need to fall on their sword.
He fell on his sword and took the blame for the team's loss in the championship game.
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