PhrasesHub

Sacred cow

    Definitions

      • something that is considered immune from criticism or interference
        Refers to a person, belief, or institution that is considered too important or valuable to be criticized or changed

      • an established practice or belief that is unquestionably followed
        Describes a tradition or practice that is followed without question, even if it may be outdated or ineffective

    Examples of Sacred cow

    • The traditional practice of bullock carts being used for transportation in rural areas, despite the availability of modern modes of transportation, is a sacred cow that many people are reluctant to give up.

      The phrase "sacred cow" is used metaphorically to describe a belief, tradition, or practice that is deeply entrenched and widely respected by a society, community, or organization, and is considered to be inviolable or untouchable. In this example, "bullock carts" represent such a tradition that has been around for generations, and many people in rural areas still rely on it for their daily needs. Although modern transportation options like tractors, buses, and trucks are readily available, giving up this traditional practice is seen as challenging the prevailing beliefs, and thus, it is considered a "sacred cow" that is not easily discarded.

    • Some people believe that the official language of the country, regardless of its practical utility, is a sacred cow that shouldn't be criticized or questioned.

      In this example, the reference to a "sacred cow" is used in the context of a cultural practice or belief that is considered to be sacrosanct, and any criticism or challenge to it is seen as an offense to the culture or tradition. In this case, the official language of a country, which may not be widely spoken or may not be as practical as other languages, is being regarded as a "sacred cow" that shouldn't be questioned or criticized.

    • Some hold opinions that are untouchable and hold firm to them, making it a sacred cow.

      Here, the use of "sacred cow" is to describe an idea or an opinion that is deeply ingrained in someone's mind and is held with reverence, making it impervious to any kind of persuasion or change. The phrase "hold firm" signifies that the person is adamant about their belief, and any attempt to challenge it is seen as a violation of the sacredness attached to it.

    • Some businessmen are reluctant to give up certain traditional marketing methods even if digital marketing offers better results, making it a sacred cow.

      In this context, the use of "sacred cow" is to describe a business practice or a marketing strategy that has been around for long and is still held in high esteem, even if it may not be as effective as newer methods. "Reluctant" here refers to the unwillingness to change, and it is an acknowledgement that the tradition or practice is deeply ingrained due to the sentimental value attached to it. The refusal to give it up, despite the availability of newer and more efficient methods, speaks volumes about the level of reverence attached to it.

    • In some Indian households, vegetarianism is considered a sacred cow.

      "Sacred cow" is a figurative expression that refers to a strongly held belief or tradition that is regarded as inviolable and immune to criticism or change. In the context of this example, vegetarianism is considered a taboo that should not be questioned or challenged. It is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and values, and is considered sacrosanct or sacred. Any attempt to alter this traditional practice would be met with strong opposition, making vegetarianism a true "sacred cow" in Indian society.

    • In the corporate world, cutting costs is sometimes seen as a sacred cow.

      In business, the expression "sacred cow" can also refer to a widely accepted practice, policy, or belief that is considered essential and necessary. In this example, cost-cutting measures are often considered inviolable and untouchable, as they are seen as essential for the survival and success of the company. Management may be hesitant to challenge or modify these cost-saving measures, as they are deeply ingrained in the company culture and may have a significant impact on the bottom line. Therefore, cost-cutting measures can also be considered a "sacred cow" in the corporate world.

    • Some people believe that traditional gender roles are sacred cows that should not be challenged.

      In this example, the expression "sacred cow" is used to refer to deeply entrenched social norms and expectations regarding gender roles. These norms may be based on cultural, religious, or historical beliefs, and are often viewed as inviolable and essential. Challenging or modifying these traditional gender roles may be perceived as a threat to the social order or the fabric of society, making them sacred cows that are deeply resistant to change.

    • In academic institutions, certain teaching methods or textbooks may be considered sacred cows.

      In the context of education, the expression "sacred cow" refers to widely accepted teaching methods, curriculums, or textbooks that are viewed as essential and necessary. These teaching practices may have been passed down for generations, and may be deeply ingrained in the academic culture. Challenging or modifying these traditional teaching methods may be met with resistance, as they are deeply ingrained in the academic community and may have a significant impact on student learning outcomes. Consequently, these academic practices can also be considered sacred cows.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "sacred cow" can be used to refer to something that is considered immune from criticism or interference, or to an established practice or belief that is unquestionably followed.

    Whether used in a literal or figurative sense, the idiom carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the thing referred to is given undue reverence or is resistant to change or improvement. It can be used to caution against blindly following tradition or to highlight the need for critical thinking and evaluation of long-held beliefs or practices.

    Origin of "Sacred cow"

    The origin of the idiom "sacred cow" can be traced back to Hinduism, where cows are considered sacred animals and are revered and protected. This belief is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, and the idiom likely originated from this religious reverence for cows.

    The figurative use of the term "sacred cow" to refer to something that is considered immune from criticism or interference likely developed from this religious context. Over time, the idiom has come to be used more broadly to criticize any person, belief, or institution that is considered too important or valuable to be questioned or changed. Examples of "sacred cows" in modern society may include political figures, cultural norms, or long-standing traditions.