He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon

Definitions

• caution
  Warn against getting too involved with someone or something that is dangerous or harmful

• self-protection
  Encourage maintaining a safe distance from potentially harmful situations or people

Examples of He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon

• In her pursuit for power, Emma often found herself dining with corrupt politicians. It was said that "he who sups with the devil should have a long spoon," and Emma knew this all too well. She made sure to always keep a healthy distance from these shady figures, lest she end up with a bite more than she could chew.

  The idiom "he who sups with the devil should have a long spoon" means that if you associate with evil or shady people, you should be careful and distance yourself from them, as they may try to harm or betray you. It's a warning against getting too close to dangerous people and implies that you should always be prepared for the worst. In Emma's case, she was aware of the potential risks of interacting with corrupt politicians and took measures to protect herself. By maintaining a healthy distance, she could still benefit from their connections without putting herself in harm's way. However, if she overstepped her bounds or became too reliant on their help, she risked falling victim to their schemes. Emma knew that the devil was always in the details, and she needed to be cautious every step of the way.

• In order to maintain a business partnership with a notoriously unscrupulous competitor, one must be prepared to navigate through treacherous waters and be cautious with every move. This is a situation where "he who sups with the devil should have a long spoon."

  This idiom originated in medieval times and reflects the belief that one should be wary of associating with evil forces, such as the devil. In the context of a business relationship, it suggests that dealing with a competitor known for underhanded tactics requires a significant amount of caution and diplomacy. By utilizing this saying, one acknowledges the risks involved and makes a conscious decision to proceed with a long spoon, or a measured approach, in order to mitigate potential harm. It is a metaphorical reminder to tread carefully and remain vigilant in the face of suspicious circumstances.

Conclusion

The idiom "He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon" is used to caution against getting involved with dangerous or harmful people or situations. It serves as a warning to maintain a safe distance and protect oneself from potential harm.

Origin of "He who sups with the devil should have a long spoon"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to medieval times, where it was believed that the devil would try to tempt people into sinning. The phrase "supping with the devil" refers to getting too close to the devil or engaging in activities that align with his temptations. The mention of a "long spoon" suggests the need for caution and distance when dealing with such a dangerous entity. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder to be wary of getting involved in potentially harmful situations or relationships. Over time, the idiom has evolved to be used in a more general sense, warning against any kind of dangerous or harmful involvement.

For example, someone might use this idiom to advise a friend against forming a partnership with a known scam artist, warning them to be cautious and maintain a safe distance.