CROCODILE TEARS Meaning and
Definition
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Crocodile tears refer to an insincere display of emotion or sympathy, often shedding tears, while simultaneously harboring ulterior motives or intentions. This phrase originates from an ancient belief that crocodiles would cry to lure unsuspecting prey closer to them. Consequently, the idiom "crocodile tears" symbolizes a false or feigned show of compassion.
The term is commonly used to describe someone who pretends to be sorrowful or remorseful while secretly rejoicing in the misfortune of others or pursuing personal gain. The individual exhibiting crocodile tears may use these deceptive emotions as a manipulative tactic to elicit sympathy, trust, or as a means of gaining advantage in a given situation.
The notion of someone shedding crocodile tears implies a lack of authenticity, sincerity, or genuine empathy. It implies that the person's tears and emotions are disingenuous, solely driven by self-interest, and not reflective of any true emotion or connection to the situation at hand.
Often used in a figurative sense, this term has become a metaphorical expression for insincerity and hypocritical behavior. It serves as a cautionary reminder to be cautious and discerning when evaluating the intentions and emotions of others, especially if their outward display does not align with their true character or motives.
Common Misspellings for CROCODILE TEARS
- xrocodile tears
- vrocodile tears
- frocodile tears
- drocodile tears
- ceocodile tears
- cdocodile tears
- cfocodile tears
- ctocodile tears
- c5ocodile tears
- c4ocodile tears
- cricodile tears
- crkcodile tears
- crlcodile tears
- crpcodile tears
- cr0codile tears
- cr9codile tears
- croxodile tears
- crovodile tears
- crofodile tears
- crododile tears
Etymology of CROCODILE TEARS
The term "crocodile tears" originates from an ancient belief that crocodiles would weep while devouring their prey. The word "crocodile" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "krokódeilos", meaning "shuttle" or "pebble". The Greek word later evolved to "krokódilos", which referred to a lizard or a crocodile. Additionally, the word "tears" means the fluid secreted by the lacrimal glands when somebody cries. The phrase "crocodile tears" is figuratively used to describe insincere or fake expressions of sadness or remorse. It implies that just as crocodiles shed tears while eating, the person shedding the tears is being deceitful or acting in a disingenuous manner.
Idioms with the word CROCODILE TEARS
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shed/weep crocodile tears
To shed/weep crocodile tears means to express false or insincere sympathy or remorse. It refers to a person pretending to be sad or concerned while hiding their true intentions or lack of genuine emotion.
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shed crocodile tears
The idiom "shed crocodile tears" refers to the act of pretending to feel sympathy or remorse for someone or something while actually lacking genuine emotion or care. It implies an insincere display of compassion or mourning.
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crocodile tears
The idiom "crocodile tears" refers to false or insincere displays of emotion, especially sadness or remorse. It is used to describe someone who pretends to feel a certain way in order to deceive others. The phrase comes from the myth that crocodiles cry while they devour their prey, though in reality, they are not actually shedding tears of sorrow.
Similar spelling words for CROCODILE TEARS
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