You, he, she, etc. started it

usgb
phrase

Used to indicate the person who began an event or action first.

Stop arguing! You started it!
Visual representation of "you, he, she, etc. started it" - Used to indicate the person who began an event or action first

Often appears as...

  • you started it
  • he started it

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "you, he, she, etc. started it"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Conflict Implication

This phrase often escalates or acknowledges conflict, and is commonly used among children or during informal disputes.

Illustration for Conflict Implication
They were both sent to the principal's office for fighting, but Alex yelled, 'He started it!'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Responsibility Shift

Using this phrase shifts the blame for an action or event onto another person.

Illustration for Responsibility Shift
When the vase broke, each sibling pointed at the other, shouting, 'She started it!'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Defensive Response

This phrase is often used defensively in response to being blamed or accused of something.

Illustration for Defensive Response
In the middle of their argument, Mike retorted, 'I only yelled because you started it!'
Visual representation of the word "You, he, she, etc. started it"

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