black book, (put) in one’s
Definition: Out of favor, disgraced. This dates back to fifteenth-century records to list people to be censured or punished by the authorities.
Synonyms:
- Outcast
- In disfavor
- Blacklisted
Antonyms:
- In favor
- Beloved
- Preferred
Related Expressions:
- In the doghouse: A more casual phrase indicating disfavor, particularly in romantic relationships.
- On the outs: Modern slang implying being excluded or out of favor.
- Persona non grata: Latin for an unwelcome person.
Humor-Filled Quote:
- “Being in someone’s black book is like being on their naughty list but without the holiday gifts to look forward to.” – Anonymous Wittician
Proverbs:
- “One day you are the statue, the next day the pigeon.”
- “A favor brushed by too many hands can easily go astray.” – Old saying adapted for modern finesse.
References in Literature and Pop Culture:
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling: While no actual black book, Harry often finds himself in and out of favor with various adults.
- The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne: Hester Prynne’s scarlet ‘A’ is a visible mark of disgrace much like being listed in a black book.
- Gossip Girl TV Series: The “little black book” of contacts is a common trope, emphasizing social connections.
Suggested Readings:
- “1984” by George Orwell: Encompasses themes of surveillance and social approval.
- “The Social Contract” by Jean-Jacques Rousseau: Discusses how societal favor and disfavor shape our lives.
Movies:
- “Mean Girls” (2004): Regina George’s Burn Book is a modern, sassy twist on the black book.
- “Goodfellas” (1990): Illustrates how falling out of favor within a social group can lead to serious consequences.
Inspirational, Thought-Provoking Farewell:
Remember, whether scribbling names in your own address book or struggling to stay out of someone’s black book, connections can make or break a character. Stay curious, stay smart, and write your own tale.
### Which is a synonym for "black book" in the context of being out of favor?
- [x] Outcast
- [ ] VIP list
- [ ] Bestseller
- [ ] Address book
> **Explanation:** To be in the "black book" means to be outcast or in disfavor—not exactly the sweet life of a VIP.
### Which of these would not be listed in a traditional black book?
- [ ] An out-of-favor employee
- [ ] A person to be censured
- [x] A friend’s phone number
- [ ] A disgraced official
> **Explanation:** In traditional terms, a black book contained names of those to be punished, not friends’ contact information.
### True or False: Henry VIII used a black book to list sinful monasteries.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Absolutely true! Henry VIII's agents compiled such a list aiming at sinful structures. Safe to say, monasteries were not pleased.
