WEASELS OUT Meaning and
Definition
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"Weasels out" is a colloquial expression that refers to the act of avoiding or evading a responsibility, commitment, or obligation, often in a deceitful or cunning manner. Derived from the behavior of a weasel, a small carnivorous mammal known for its sly and elusive nature, this phrase implies attempts to sidestep or wriggle out of undesirable situations, typically through manipulative or deceptive tactics.
When someone "weasels out" of something, they find ways to avoid fulfilling their promise, duty, or agreement, often by resorting to clever excuses, empty words, or dishonest tactics. This can commonly occur in various contexts, such as avoiding work, dodging financial responsibilities, or evading consequences for one's actions. The phrase highlights the negative connotation associated with such behavior, implying a lack of integrity, moral conduct, or respect for one's commitments.
Additionally, "weasels out" can imply a lack of accountability or a tendency to take advantage of others for personal gain. This phrase often suggests a sense of opportunism and a willingness to use cunning methods to escape unfavorable situations or to shirk responsibilities. Overall, "weasels out" reflects a negative judgment on individuals who resort to dishonest or manipulative actions to evade their obligations.
Common Misspellings for WEASELS OUT
- qeasels out
- aeasels out
- seasels out
- eeasels out
- 3easels out
- 2easels out
- wwasels out
- wsasels out
- wdasels out
- wrasels out
- w4asels out
- w3asels out
- wezsels out
- wessels out
- wewsels out
- weqsels out
- weaaels out
- weazels out
- weaxels out
Etymology of WEASELS OUT
The phrase "weasels out" is derived from the noun "weasel", which refers to a small carnivorous mammal belonging to the Mustelidae family. Weasels are known for their ability to squeeze and maneuver through small spaces, including narrow burrows or crevices.
The term "weasel" has been used metaphorically to describe someone who is cunning, deceitful, or evasive since at least the 19th century. When someone "weasels out" of a situation or responsibility, it means they cunningly or slyly avoid it.
The usage of "weasels out" as a phrase likely evolved from the broader metaphorical use of "weasel" to describe dishonest or elusive behavior. Over time, "weasels out" became a commonly used expression to denote evading responsibility or reneging on a commitment through cunning tactics.
