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Crocodile tears
01
fake display of feelings of sadness, remorse, or sympathy
Idiom
Informal
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Plural form
crocodile tears
What is the origin of the idiom "crocodile tears" and when to use it?
The idiom "crocodile tears" traces its origin to an ancient belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming their prey. However, this idea is scientifically inaccurate as crocodiles do not express genuine emotions. Nevertheless, the phrase "crocodile tears" has come to represent insincere or hypocritical displays of sorrow or remorse. This expression is used to convey the idea of false sympathy or remorse, emphasizing the insincerity or ulterior motives behind someone's emotional display.
Examples
The politician shed crocodile tears during his speech, pretending to empathize with the citizens' struggles while actively working against their interests.
