CATCHES REDHANDED Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "catches red-handed" is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of apprehending someone in the act of committing a wrongdoing or engaging in an illicit activity, typically with clear and undeniable evidence. The term originated from the practice of bloodstaining one's hands while committing a crime, hence the use of "red-handed" to emphasize guilt.
When someone is caught red-handed, it implies that they have been caught in the act itself, leaving no room for denial or escape. The evidence against the individual is so strong and conclusive that the guilt becomes indisputable. This idiom is often used in situations where immediate action must be taken, such as crimes or misdemeanors.
The phrase "catches red-handed" can be applied to various contexts. For instance, it could refer to someone being caught stealing, cheating, lying, or even engaging in an illegal activity such as vandalism or fraud. It implies that the person has been caught in the very act, leaving little room for defense or justification.
The figurative nature of the expression makes it widely used in both formal and informal settings. It emphasizes the element of surprise and the undeniable nature of the evidence, leaving the culprit no chance to evade responsibility.
Common Misspellings for CATCHES REDHANDED
- catches red handed
- xatches redhanded
- vatches redhanded
- fatches redhanded
- datches redhanded
- cztches redhanded
- cstches redhanded
- cwtches redhanded
- cqtches redhanded
- carches redhanded
- cafches redhanded
- cagches redhanded
- cayches redhanded
- ca6ches redhanded
- ca5ches redhanded
- catxhes redhanded
- catvhes redhanded
- catfhes redhanded
- catdhes redhanded
- catcges redhanded
Etymology of CATCHES REDHANDED
The phrase "catches red-handed" originated in Scotland in the 15th century, where it was used to describe catching someone with blood-stained hands, indicating that they were guilty of a crime or wrongdoing. The term "red-handed" refers to one's hands being stained or covered in blood, suggesting that the person was caught in the act of a crime. Over time, the phrase evolved to include catching someone in any act of wrongdoing, not just those involving blood.
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