Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
take someone's name in vain
idiom
/teɪk ˈsʌmˌwʌnz neɪm ɪn veɪn/
Definition
To use someone’s name without proper respect, often in a casual or irreverent manner.
Examples
- He didn’t mean to take his father’s name in vain; he was just frustrated.
- She was scolded for taking the teacher’s name in vain during the argument.
Meaning
This phrase typically refers to speaking about someone in a disrespectful way, especially when invoking their name for emphasis or to express frustration.
Synonyms
- Use irreverently
- Misuse a name
- Invoke disrespectfully
