The expression "raising the devil" means causing trouble or making a big fuss about something. In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation of "raising" is /ˈreɪzɪŋ/ and the pronunciation of "devil" is /ˈdɛvəl/. The spelling of the word "raising" is consistent with its pronunciation, with the "ai" sound making the long "a" sound. The spelling of "devil" is less consistent with its pronunciation, as the "e" and "i" are not pronounced as we might expect.
The phrase "raising the devil" is an idiomatic expression used in colloquial English to describe an action or behavior that provokes chaos, trouble, or disruption in a given situation. It is commonly used to describe instances where one deliberately causes or instigates disturbances, disagreements, or conflicts, often for their personal gain or amusement.
The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the concept of summoning or invoking evil spirits or demons, referred to as "raising the devil." The metaphorical meaning has evolved over time to represent stirring up trouble or creating a hostile environment akin to the misconduct that could be expected from an angered demon.
In modern usage, "raising the devil" is typically employed when referring to people or circumstances that generate disorder, conflict, or challenge established norms. It suggests an individual's disruptive tendencies, often through rebellious actions or provocative speech. This expression signifies an intentional act to create unrest or disturb a peaceful atmosphere.
The phrase is often used figuratively to describe situations where chaos or unrest has been incited, such as stirring up controversy or sparking arguments. It is essential to note that "raising the devil" does not imply the summoning of actual demons or engaging in supernatural activities, but rather signifies a metaphorical representation of creating turmoil or discord in various contexts, be it personal, professional, or social settings.