How are the mighty fallen?

Definitions

• express surprise or disappointment
  To express disbelief or disappointment at the downfall or failure of someone or something that was once powerful or successful

• express humility
  To acknowledge one's own or someone else's fall from grace or loss of power with humility and reflection

Examples of How are the mighty fallen?

• The president, once a respected and powerful leader, has been brought down by a series of scandals and impeachment proceedings. The people who once worshipped him now turn their backs in disgust and disbelief. How are the mighty fallen indeed?

  The idiom "How are the mighty fallen?" is used to express shock and surprise at the downfall or defeat of a prominent or successful person. It comes from a Bible verse in 2 Samuel 1:19, where David laments the death of a fallen soldier who was once brave and strong. In this example, the speaker is using the idiom to comment on the fall from grace of a former president, who was once widely respected and admired but is now disgraced and disgraced.

• In the business world, a prominent executive who once had great success and respect has been brought down by scandal or poor performance.

  "How are the mighty fallen?" is often used to express surprise and dismay when someone who was once in a position of power or prestige has suffered a significant downfall. This idiom can be applied to various contexts, especially when describing the downfall of a person who once commanded great respect and authority. In this example, it is used to describe the fall of a high-ranking executive who has lost their reputation and influence due to questionable actions or poor performance.

• In politics, a former leader who was once admired and revered has been defeated or disgraced.

  "How are the mighty fallen?" can also be used to describe the downfall of a political leader who has experienced a significant setback or loss of power. This might be due to a defeat in an election, a scandal, or personal misconduct. The idiom can emphasize the contrast between the former leader's position of strength and authority and their current situation, which can be particularly poignant in the context of politics.

• In the world of sports, a famous athlete who once dominated their sport has suffered a serious injury or abrupt retirement.

  "How are the mighty fallen?" can also be used to describe the sudden and unexpected fall from grace of a famous athlete. This might be due to a serious injury that ends their career, a retirement that comes earlier than expected, or a decline in performance. The idiom can convey both the disappointment of the athlete's fans and the shock and surprise of their sudden departure from the sport.

• In the realm of arts and entertainment, a celebrated actor, musician, or artist who was once a household name has experienced a significant fall from grace.

  "How are the mighty fallen?" can also be used to express the downfall of a prominent figure in the arts, particularly in cases where their reputation has been damaged by scandal, addiction, or personal misconduct. The idiom can convey the loss of respect and admiration that has accompanied the figure's fall from grace, as well as the disillusionment of their fans and colleagues.In all of these examples, "How are the mighty fallen?" conveys a sense of shock, dismay, and tragedy at the sudden and unexpected downfall of a powerful or respected figure. The idiom highlights the contrast between the figure's former position of strength and authority and their current situation, and can underscore the sense of loss and disappointment that accompanies their fall from grace.

Conclusion

The idiom "How are the mighty fallen?" is commonly used to express surprise or disappointment at the downfall of someone or something that was once powerful or successful. It can also be used to acknowledge and reflect on one's own or someone else's loss of power with humility.

The phrase is often used in a reflective or contemplative tone, expressing a sense of disbelief or disappointment at the sudden change in fortune. It can also be used to acknowledge the impermanence of power and success, and to express empathy for those who have experienced a fall from grace.

Origin of "How are the mighty fallen?"

The phrase "How are the mighty fallen?" originates from the Bible, specifically the Book of Samuel in the Old Testament. It is a lament spoken by King David upon hearing of the deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan in battle. The phrase has since become a common expression used to reflect on the downfall or failure of powerful or successful individuals or entities.

The origin of the phrase carries a sense of solemnity and reflection, as it is tied to the mourning of the loss of powerful figures. Its use has since evolved to encompass a broader range of situations where the downfall of the once mighty is observed or acknowledged.