Give somebody enough rope

usgb
verb

To let someone do what they want in the hope they will make a mistake that will be their downfall.

The detective decided to give the prime suspect enough rope, baiting him to slip and reveal his guilt.
Visual representation of "give somebody enough rope" - To let someone do what they want in the hope they will make a mistake that will be their downfall

Often appears as...

  • decide to give someone enough rope
  • it's time to give him enough rope

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "give somebody enough rope"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

Understand it's not about literal rope, but giving freedom to act until a mistake is made.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Playing coy, she gave him enough rope to see if he'd lie again.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Expectation of Failure

It implies the belief that the person will fail when left to their own devices.

Illustration for Expectation of Failure
We watched, giving the new hire enough rope to hang himself.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Strategy Implication

It's often used to describe a strategic decision to not intervene.

Illustration for Strategy Implication
The teacher gave the student enough rope to learn from his own mistakes.
Visual representation of the word "Give somebody enough rope"

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