Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

et tu, Brute?

Phrase

/ɛt tuː ˈbruːteɪ/

Definition

A phrase used to express shock or betrayal when a trusted friend acts against someone.

Examples

When he discovered his partner was involved in the scheme, he felt as if he had been uttering ‘et tu, Brute?’ in his heart.
The sudden revelation left her saying, ‘Et tu, Brute?’ to her colleague who leaked the secret.

Meaning

The phrase translates to ‘And you, Brutus?’ and is famously attributed to Julius Caesar’s last words as he was being assassinated. It signifies that even the people closest to you can betray you.