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a price on one's head
01
a specific amount of money that is offered as a reward to anyone who captures or kills a particular person
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IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "a price on one's head" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "a price on one's head" can be traced back to historical practices of offering bounties for capturing or killing wanted individuals. In ancient times and throughout history, it was not uncommon for authorities or powerful figures to offer a monetary reward, or "price," to incentivize others to capture or harm a specific person. This practice was particularly prevalent during times of political unrest, where rewards were often offered for the capture or elimination of political enemies or fugitives.
Example
The fugitive is living in constant fear with a price on his head, always looking over his shoulder.
He narrowly escaped capture when there was a price on his head, thanks to his quick thinking.
Despite the danger, he managed to survive the time when there was a price on his head.
As tensions rise, more individuals will have a price on their heads, leading to an escalating conflict.
The rebel leader was killed by mercenaries when there had been a price on his head for years.
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