The Devil Take the Hindmost: The Last One Loses! 😈🏃♂️
“Every one for himself, and the devil take the hindmost.” – John Florio, First Fruites, 1578
Definition
This vivid idiom essentially implies that the person who lags behind or finishes last is left to their own devices and can expect no help or pity; it’s synonymous with blatant selfishness.
Synonyms:
- Every man for himself: A similar phrase highlighting individualism.
- Dog eat dog: Evokes a fierce, competitive environment.
- Survival of the fittest: Only the strongest survive.
Antonyms:
- All for one and one for all: Emphasizes unity and cooperation.
- In this together: Stresses supportive team effort.
The Lighter Side 😆
“Remember, in the race of life, it’s not about being the hindmost; the devil never sweats in the front row.” – Finn Ishpness
Related Expressions:
- Throw someone under the bus: Sacrifice a colleague or friend for one’s own gain.
- Left out in the cold: Left without support or assistance.
Proverbs:
- “Birds of a feather flock together.” Stresses cooperation among similar individuals.
- “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.” Highlights the importance of every participant.
Cultural References 📚🎬
Literature:
- “Philaster” by Beaumont and Fletcher, where the idiom appears.
- “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: A series where survival and competition are key themes.
Songs:
- “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi: A tune about taking control of one’s destiny.
- “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor: The quintessential song for fierce competition.
Movies:
- “Mad Max” series: Representing post-apocalyptic survival and individualism at its peak.
- “The Wolf of Wall Street”: A film that underscores ruthless ambition often encapsulated by the phrase.
Quiz Time! 🧠
### What does "Devil take the hindmost" mean?
- [x] Bad luck for whoever comes last
- [ ] The devil waits for those in front
- [ ] Help those who are last
- [ ] A fun children's game
> **Explanation:** This idiom means whoever is last is left to fend for themselves, essentially expressing a harsh, competitive nature of society.
### Which phrase suggests a cooperative effort?
- [ ] Devil take the hindmost
- [ ] Dog eat dog
- [ ] Every man for himself
- [x] All for one and one for all
> **Explanation:** "All for one and one for all" promotes unity and mutual support, in contrast to more selfish idioms.
### True or False: The phrase 'Devil take the hindmost' originated in children's games.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** The idiom is thought to have originated from children's games, particularly the ones that involved chasing and losing.
Farewell Thought:
“Be kind and look out for each other because in the end, cooperation often outlasts competition.” - E. Navishevan
