Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
the devil take the hindmost
idiom
/ðə ˈdɛvəl teɪk ðə ˈhaɪndmoʊst/
Definition
This phrase means that only the fittest or most able will survive or succeed, regardless of the consequences for others.
Examples
- In the stock market, it’s often a case of the devil take the hindmost; investors are only looking out for their own profits.
- During the competitive race, it was clear that the devil take the hindmost attitude was driving everyone to push harder.
Meaning
It suggests a dog-eat-dog attitude where individuals prioritize their own success over the welfare of others.
Synonyms
- every man for himself
- survival of the fittest
- it’s all or nothing
