Another Word For Scapegoat
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Meaning
A scapegoat is a person or group that is unfairly blamed for problems or negative outcomes, often to divert attention from the real causes. It is a way for others to shift responsibility and avoid accountability by placing the blame on someone else, who usually bears the consequences.
Synonyms
- Victim
- Fall guy
- Patsy
- Target
- Whipping boy
Antonyms
- Beneficiary
- Aider
- Supporter
- Champion
- Ally
Etymology
The term "scapegoat" comes from the biblical practice described in Leviticus 16, where a goat was symbolically burdened with the sins of the people and sent into the wilderness as part of a ritual for atonement. The word is a combination of "scape," meaning escape, and "goat," referring to the animal used in this ritual.
Examples
- The manager used his assistant as a scapegoat for the project's failure, despite his own poor leadership.
- In a heated argument, she became the scapegoat, taking the blame for everyone else's mistakes.
- Throughout history, marginalized groups have often been made scapegoats during times of crisis.
- The company appointed a scapegoat to absorb the negative press from the product recall.
- Many students felt like scapegoats when the teacher scolded the whole class for the few who misbehaved.