How Do You Spell SCOT FREE?

Pronunciation: [skˈɒt fɹˈiː] (IPA)

The phrase "scot free" refers to someone getting away with something without punishment. The spelling of "scot" in this phrase is derived from the Old Norse word "skot," meaning a contribution or payment. The word "free," meaning exempt or clear, comes from the Old English word "freo." The pronunciation of "scot free" is /skɒt friː/, with the "o" being pronounced as in "hot" and the "ee" as in "me." The stress is on the second syllable, "free."

SCOT FREE Meaning and Definition

1. "Scot free" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of escaping punishment, consequence, or blame, often in relation to a wrongdoing or offense committed. This term originates from an older meaning of "scot," which was a tax or payment levied on individuals for communal obligations or wrongdoings. In this context, to be "scot free" meant that one was exempt from such taxes or duties, thereby avoiding any consequences or penalties.

   In modern usage, "scot free" does not involve literal taxation but rather metaphorically implies evading any form of retribution or accountability. It suggests that an individual has managed to avoid punishment or negative consequences for their actions, often resulting in a feeling of unfairness or a lack of justice. This expression can be employed to describe various scenarios, such as a criminal evading capture or a person getting away with an unethical or deceitful act without facing any repercussions.

   "Scot free" emphasizes the perceived lack of justice or inequity in a situation, implying that the individual should not have been able to escape without facing the consequences of their actions. Although the exact origin of this phrase is uncertain, it has become a commonly used idiomatic expression in English language and is often used to highlight instances where someone manages to avoid punishment or responsibility.

2. • Without payment; to pay one's shot, to pay one's share of a common expense.

   • Without payment; unpunished.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SCOT FREE

• acot free
• zcot free
• xcot free
• dcot free
• ecot free
• wcot free
• svot free
• sfot free
• sdot free
• scit free
• sckt free
• sclt free
• scpt free
• sc0t free
• sc9t free
• scor free
• scof free
• scog free
• scoy free
• sco6 free

Etymology of SCOT FREE

The expression "scot free" originates from the Old Norse word "skotbragð", meaning "a project aimed at escaping without payment". The term later evolved into "scotfree" in Middle English, combining "scot", referring to a tax or fee, and "free", meaning exempt or without obligation. Over time, "scotfree" turned into the modern form "scot free" and came to signify the act of avoiding punishment or penalty without cost or consequence.