Wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes

usgb
phrase

To show that you are sorry for something you have done, generally in a public manner.

After the scandal, the politician was forced to wear sackcloth and ashes in a bid to retain his position.
Visual representation of "wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes" - To show that you are sorry for something you have done, generally in a public manner.

Often appears as...

  • forced to wear sackcloth and ashes
  • repent in sackcloth and ashes

Usage tips

Formal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes"
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Historical Origin

Originates from ancient practices of mourning and penance, symbolizing extreme humility.

Illustration for Historical Origin
The CEO wore sackcloth and ashes during the press conference to show contrition for the company's mistakes.
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Figurative Use

Used metaphorically in modern times to express deep regret for wrongdoings, not literal dressing.

Illustration for Figurative Use
The company had to put on sackcloth and ashes after the environmental disaster they caused.
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Public Apology

Often suggests a public or very visible display of remorse, rather than a private apology.

Illustration for Public Apology
Following the outage, the service provider donned sackcloth and ashes in front of its users.
Visual representation of the word "Wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes"

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