Every man for himself

usgb
phrase

Every person should or will take care of themselves or their interests before helping others.

When the ship started sinking, it was every man for himself.
Visual representation of "every man for himself" - Every person should or will take care of themselves or their interests before helping others.

Often appears as...

  • every man for himself
  • he shouted.

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "every man for himself"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emergency Context

This phrase is often used in situations of panic or disaster where everyone must escape or survive on their own.

Illustration for Emergency Context
After the earthquake hit, the survivors knew it was every man for himself.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Selfish Undertone

The phrase implies a lack of teamwork or unity, suggesting an every-person-for-themselves mentality.

Illustration for Selfish Undertone
In the competitive sales environment, it's every man for himself.
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Not Literal

It's an idiomatic expression and shouldn't be taken literally. It means looking after oneself, not necessarily men only.

Illustration for Not Literal
When they lost the map in the woods, it was every man for himself.
Visual representation of the word "Every man for himself"

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