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to take the law into one's (own) hands
to take the law into one's (own) hands
01
to illegally punish someone in a way that one personally thinks is right or just, often by the use of violence
![to [take] the law into {one's} (own|) hands definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/43450/original/?type=jpeg "to [take] the law into {one's} (own|) hands definition and meaning")
Formal
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "take the law into one's hands" and when to use it?
The idiom "take the law into one's hands" has its origins in English common law and legal principles. It refers to the act of individuals or groups assuming the role of law enforcement or justice system without proper authority or due process. It is commonly employed in discussions surrounding issues of perceived injustice, lack of trust in the legal system, or situations where individuals feel compelled to seek their own form of retribution.
Examples
The police warned the crowd not to take the law into their own hands.
