GIVE QUARTER Meaning and
Definition
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Give quarter is a phrase that primarily refers to showing mercy or leniency towards someone, typically in a military context. This expression derives from historical practices during warfare, where a victorious army would grant "quarter" or "mercy" to defeated enemy soldiers. The act of giving quarter meant sparing the lives of captured soldiers instead of executing them or subjecting them to further harm.
In a broader sense, giving quarter embodies the concept of displaying compassion or kindness towards someone who may be in a disadvantaged or vulnerable position. It signifies extending a helping hand or offering support to those in need, even if they are perceived as opponents or adversaries. In this context, giving quarter is seen as an act of generosity, empathy, or understanding, showing magnanimity in times of conflict or dispute.
The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe situations outside of warfare. For instance, in discussions or debates, individuals may give quarter by being open-minded, receptive to differing viewpoints, and willing to engage in a respectful dialogue. Giving quarter in this context conveys a willingness to compromise or find common ground, fostering productive conversations instead of escalating tensions.
Overall, giving quarter is an expression that encapsulates the compassionate act of showing mercy, kindness, or understanding towards others, regardless of whether it pertains to military conflicts or other aspects of life where empathy and benevolence are valued.
Common Misspellings for GIVE QUARTER
- five quarter
- vive quarter
- bive quarter
- hive quarter
- yive quarter
- tive quarter
- guve quarter
- gjve quarter
- gkve quarter
- gove quarter
- g9ve quarter
- g8ve quarter
- gice quarter
- gibe quarter
- gige quarter
- gife quarter
- givw quarter
- givs quarter
- givd quarter
- givr quarter
Etymology of GIVE QUARTER
The phrase "give quarter" is derived from medieval military jargon. The word "quarter" refers to a time period in which a defeated enemy is given a chance to surrender. It comes from the Old French word "quartier" meaning "a quarter, a fourth part". In battles or conflicts, when an army offered "quarter" to their opponents, it meant they would spare their lives or grant them mercy if they surrendered. This concept of "quarter" evolved into the phrase "give quarter", which is still used today to refer to showing mercy or allowing an enemy to surrender.
