⚖️ Taking the Law into One’s Own Hands 🕵️♂️
Definition
To “take the law into one’s own hands” means to punish someone or resolve a dispute according to one’s own ideas of justice, instead of relying on law enforcement or judicial authorities.
Synonyms
- Play vigilante
- Be judge, jury, and executioner
- Enforce the law oneself
- Seek street justice
Antonyms
- Follow the law
- Abide by the rules
- Rely on the authorities
Humorous Quotes & Proverbs
- “Sometimes you just wish Batman would show up and sort everything out, but alas, we only have the legal system.” - Anonymous
- “Why let the professionals handle it when you can complicate things yourself?” - Modern-day Homer Simpson
Related Literature & Movies
- 📚 To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- 🎬 Batman Begins - When Bruce Wayne takes justice into his own hands.
- 📚 Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - The story of Javert could learn a thing or two about sticking to the conventional rules of justice.
- 🎬 Gran Torino - Clint Eastwood’s character flawlessly demonstrates this idiom.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
“Justice may be blind, but remember to give it a guide dog.”
### When might someone "take the law into their own hands"?
- [x] When they believe justice won’t be served by legal means.
- [ ] When they're following all traffic laws meticulously.
- [ ] When they are painting their house.
- [ ] When writing a friendly letter to a neighbor.
> **Explanation:** This idiom typically applies when someone believes the justice system won't deliver a fair outcome and decides to act independently.
### Is "taking the law into one's own hands" generally recommended?
- [ ] Yes
- [x] No
> **Explanation:** While it might make for great movie plots, in reality, it’s generally advised to adhere to the legal system for issues of justice and retribution.
### In which classic novel does a man try to act as his own enforcer of justice?
- [ ] Moby Dick
- [x] Les Misérables
- [ ] War and Peace
- [ ] Pride and Prejudice
> **Explanation:** Jean Valjean in "Les Misérables" faces off against a rather strict and self-appointed enforcer of the law, Javert.
