hold no brief for, to
Definition: To refuse to endorse, support, or defend. This expression hails from the legal realm, where holding a brief means acting as counsel for someone and thus arguing on their behalf. The phrase gained popularity in its negative form in the 19th century. The Oxford English Dictionary cites R. A. Knox, who wrote in Spiritual Aeneid (1918): “When I was at Balliol we used to adopt the phrase ‘I hold no brief for so-and-so.’”
Related Terms and Expressions
- Neutral Stance: To remain unbiased or impartial.
- Sit on the Fence: To avoid making a decision or choice.
- Devil’s Advocate: To argue against a position for the sake of debate.
- Play Swiss: Referring to Switzerland’s historical stance of neutrality.
- Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys: (Polish Proverb) Meaning, it’s not my problem, so I won’t get involved.
Similar Idioms
- Wash one’s hands of it: To disclaim all responsibility for or connection with.
- Stand aloof: To remain uninvolved or uninterested.
Quotes & Proverbs
“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” - Edmund Burke
This implies that choosing not to act or endorse can have significant consequences. Speak up or stand down wisely!
Literature & Media References
- Books: Catch-22 by Joseph Heller – A satirical novel that deals with the absurdities of war and bureaucracy where neutrality comes with its own set of lunacies.
- Movies: Twelve Angry Men – A classic courtroom drama that explores the importance and intricacies of standing for a belief or, conversely, not holding a brief for prejudices.
- Songs: “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who – Reflects themes of resolute non-endorsement and skepticism.
Thought-Provoking Farewell
Whether in the courtroom or in day-to-day life, the decisions to advocate or refrain from support encapsulates deep wisdom. Neutrality and judgement often walk a thin line – tread carefully!
“Choose your battles wisely; silence is not always surrender, but sometimes discretion is the better part of valor.”
~ L. O. Lexicon
