Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'Not Cricket,' a term synonymous with fairness and integrity, through a comprehensive dictionary entry.
The phrase “not cricket” is an idiomatic expression used to denote actions or behaviors that are considered unfair, unsportsmanlike, or contrary to the principles of integrity and fair play. It suggests a deviation from accepted standards of conduct, particularly in competitive or formal settings.
The expression “not cricket” originates from the sport of cricket, a game traditionally associated with notions of fair play and gentlemanly conduct. The term is believed to have emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century, reflecting the cultural values embedded in the sport. Cricket, as played in England and its colonies, was seen as a metaphor for fairness and decency. The phrase gained traction as a colloquialism to critique actions that failed to adhere to these ideals.
Semantically, “not cricket” conveys disapproval and moral judgment. It implies that an action or decision lacks the ethical standards expected in a given context. While primarily used in British English, the phrase has permeated other English-speaking regions, often invoked in discussions of ethics and sportsmanship.
In contemporary culture, “not cricket” is employed in various contexts beyond sports, including business, politics, and everyday social interactions. It serves as a shorthand for critiquing unethical behavior or decisions perceived as unjust. The phrase appears in literary works and media, reinforcing its association with traditional British values.
In professional settings, “not cricket” may be used to critique unethical business practices. Socially, it can describe behavior that violates communal standards of fairness. In literary contexts, it often underscores themes of integrity and moral conduct.
The phrase “not cricket” retains contemporary relevance, particularly in discussions of ethics and integrity. Its durability is bolstered by its cultural resonance and historical roots, though its usage may be more prevalent in British and Commonwealth contexts. ★★★★☆
“It isn’t cricket, you know, to go back on a fellow like that.” - P. G. Wodehouse, The Man Upstairs and Other Stories (1914)
“To play the game and never mind the score; / To be a sportsman and nothing more; / To win or lose with a smiling face, / And to treat your foe as a brother.” - Henry Newbolt, Vitai Lampada (1892)