What does “Hoist with your own petard” mean?
"Hoist with your own petard" means to be harmed or defeated by one's own plan or actions.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He thought he could outsmart his opponent, but he ended up being hoist with his own petard.
Example
The company's unethical practices eventually led to their downfall, hoisting them with their own petard.
Example
She tried to manipulate the situation, but it backfired and she was hoisted with her own petard
Is “Hoist with your own petard” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hoist with your own petard” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Hoist with your own petard” effectively in context?
You can use "Hoist with your own petard" to describe a situation where someone's own actions or plans backfire on them, causing them harm or defeat. It emphasizes the irony and poetic justice of the situation. For example, if someone tries to deceive others but ends up being caught in their own lies, you could say, 'He thought he could outsmart his opponent, but he ended up being hoist with his own petard.'
- 1Deception
She tried to manipulate the situation, but it backfired and she was hoisted with her own petard.
- 2Unethical Practices
The company's unethical practices eventually led to their downfall, hoisting them with their own petard.
- 3Overconfidence
He thought he could outsmart his opponent, but he ended up being hoist with his own petard.
Similar phrases to “Hoist with your own petard”:
Shoot oneself in the foot
To unintentionally harm oneself or undermine one's own efforts
Example
By revealing his true intentions, he shot himself in the foot and lost the trust of his colleagues.
Backfire
To have the opposite effect of what was intended, resulting in negative consequences
Example
His attempt to embarrass his rival backfired, making him look foolish instead.
Dig one's own grave
To do something that will ultimately lead to one's own downfall or ruin
Example
By constantly procrastinating, he was digging his own grave and jeopardizing his chances of success.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hoist with your own petard” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hoist with your own petard" can be traced back to Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet.' In Act 3, Scene 4, Hamlet uses the phrase to describe the act of being blown up by one's own bomb. A petard was a small explosive device used in warfare during the 16th century. The phrase suggests that someone's own plan or actions can lead to their own downfall or harm.
Is “Hoist with your own petard” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Hoist with your own petard" is not as commonly used in everyday conversation compared to other idioms. However, it is still recognized and understood by native English speakers. It is often used in more formal or literary contexts, such as in writing or when discussing literature.
What tone does “Hoist with your own petard” have?
"Hoist with your own petard" conveys a tone of irony and poetic justice. It highlights the consequences of someone's own actions or plans, emphasizing the satisfaction of seeing someone face the repercussions of their own deeds.
Can “Hoist with your own petard” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Hoist with your own petard" is more formal in nature and is commonly used in literary or intellectual discussions. It may not be as commonly used in informal conversations or everyday speech.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She thought she could get away with cheating, but she was hoist with her own petard.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Hoist with your own petard!' to express the idea of someone facing the consequences of their own actions.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- reap what you sow
- get a taste of your own medicine
- fall into your own trap
- face the consequences
- pay the price
Antonyms
- succeed
- triumph
- outsmart
- avoid consequences
- escape unscathed
