🚫 Far Be It from Me: The Art of Feigning Virtue and Good Intentions 🎭
Far be it from me. This centuries-old disclaimer has been used when one wants to feign disinterest or disavow intentions while likely yearning for the exact opposite. Imagine the thinly veiled eye roll hidden behind virtue. From literature to daily dialogue, this phrase has danced on the lips of millions, rendering mock humility with almost seamless grace.
Sprucing It Up: Related and Similar Terms 🤹♂️
- God forbid: A panicked attempt to ward off an unwelcome scenario, often used similarly to avoid direct responsibility.
- Heaven forfend: A dramatic way to say “perish the thought.”
- No, not I: Another deflection, offering flat denial and an aura of innocence.
- Far be it: A shorter, older version used within deferential and humorously evasive contexts.
- Lord forbid: A slightly religious hint, but theatrical enough for forcefully excluding oneself from blame.
Proverbs, Expressions, and Idioms 💬
- “I’d swear on a stack of Bibles:” Overzealous promise of truth.
- “With all due respect”: Often preceding a disrespectful critique.
- “Not to sound [something], but…”: Frequently a precursor to sounding exactly as suggested.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Humor 🎭
Synonyms:
- Disavow: To disclaim any particiation or support for something.
- Eschew: To purposefully avoid or shun.
- Forfend: To deny or forbid.
Antonyms:
- Own it: To boldly and unapologetically take responsibility.
- Admit: Accepting truth or responsibility without deflections.
- Acknowledge: To recognize openly.
Quotes and Literary References 📖
“Far be it from me to impede progress,” said the bureaucrat, stacking fresh paperwork with glee."
-Comedic observer comment about data processing.
Inspirational Choices:
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: Full of characters who feign disinterest or commitment while clearly entertaining the exact opposite feelings.
- “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare: The “God forbid” variety here thrives.
Films, Songs, and Other Media 🎬🎶
- Movie: “The Importance of Being Earnest” (1952 & 2002 versions): Full of doublespeak and thwarted intentions.
- Song: “Irony” by Alanis Morissette: For that “isn’t it ironic, don’t you think?” moment.
Quiz Section 📝
### Which of these phrases denotes false humility?
- [x] Far be it from me
- [ ] Just kidding
- [ ] Raining cats and dogs
- [ ] Let sleeping dogs lie
> **Explanation:** "Far be it from me" is often used to imply false humility, stating to avoid doing or saying something while covertly desiring to do so.
### What's most similar in sentiment to "far be it from me"?
- [x] God forbid
- [ ] Willingly accept
- [ ] Happily obliges
- [ ] Definitely dispute
> **Explanation:** "God forbid" is often used as a synonym, a way to deny intention while perhaps feeling otherwise.
### True or False: 'Far be it from me' originates from medieval texts.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True, the phrase dates back to the fourteenth century, notably used in Wycliffe's translation of Genesis and resounding since then.
Farewell, dear readers. May you always discern the genuine “far be it from me” amongst the playful camouflages of humanity. Go forth and delight in your linguistic ventures.
With words and wit, Lydia Livelylips October 1, 2023
