Double-cross ✌️❌🤝

Meaning

To betray someone who trusts you, especially by doing the opposite of what you promised.

Origin

Imagine two entirely separate paths, or 'crosses,' that represent an agreement or alliance. To 'double-cross' someone is to betray them by switching from one promised path to the opposing one, effectively deceiving them. This imagery likely emerged from the world of theater or perhaps even earlier forms of coded communication, where a simple 'cross' might signify a promise, and doubling it implied a complete reversal and betrayal of that initial sign. It’s a stark visual of divided loyalty and outright deception, a complete turn-around from what was expected.

🎭🤥 deception 🔒 secrets

Double-cross represented with emoji✌️❌🤝

This playful arrangement of peace signs crossed out and forming an unwelcome handshake brilliantly subverts the notion of agreement. It functions as a visual riddle, teaching the viewer to look beyond the surface and consider the unexpected betrayal lurking within seemingly harmonious symbols. Note how the gesture of peace is immediately invalidated, leaving us with a stark representation of broken trust.

Examples

  • He thought he could double-cross his business partner and take all the profits for himself.
  • She was furious when she realized her best friend had double-crossed her on the secret project.
  • The sneaky squirrel planned to double-cross the bluebirds and hoard all the best nuts for himself.
  • The mischievous cat decided to double-cross the dog by pretending to share the comfy armchair.

Frequently asked questions

What's the opposite of a double-cross?

The opposite of a double-cross is to honor an agreement or remain loyal. While there isn't one single antonym phrase, concepts like 'standing by someone,' 'keeping one's word,' or 'playing fair' capture the essence of the opposite behavior.

Can someone double-cross themselves?

Figuratively, yes, though it's not a common usage. People might say they 'double-crossed themselves' if they acted in a way that ultimately sabotaged their own goals or promises, betraying their own best interests.

Is 'double-cross' a formal or informal expression?

'Double-cross' is an informal expression, typically used in casual conversation or when describing betrayals in fiction and everyday life. It implies a sneaky, underhanded act of disloyalty.

What's the difference between a double-cross and a betrayal?

A double-cross is a specific type of betrayal that involves breaking a promise or trust, often in a calculated and deceptive manner. All double-crosses are betrayals, but not all betrayals are necessarily double-crosses.

Similar to "double-cross"

Throw under the bus
Both involve betrayal, but 'throw under the bus' suggests sacrificing someone to save yourself, often abruptly and publicly, while 'double-cross' implies a more calculated, often pre-planned deception
Stab in the back
Both convey treacherous betrayal, but 'stab in the back' emphasizes the suddenness and personal nature of the act, often by someone thought to be a friend, whereas 'double-cross' specifically highlights the violation of a prior agreement or trust
Burn one's bridges
Both actions irrevocably damage relationships, but 'burn one's bridges' is about self-destructive severing of ties to prevent return, while 'double-cross' is about deceiving others to gain advantage, often leaving those bridges intact for one's own future use

Opposite of "double-cross"

Have someone's back
This phrase argues for steadfast loyalty and protection, standing as a direct counterpoint to the self-serving deception of a double-cross, urging solidarity instead of betrayal
Make good on one's promise
This champions integrity and reliability, directly opposing the broken trust inherent in a double-cross by emphasizing the virtue of fulfilling one's word, thereby building trust rather than shattering it

Related to "double-cross"

Backstabber
This noun is the direct label for someone who performs a 'double-cross' or 'stab in the back', capturing the essence of treacherous betrayal in a single, sharp term
Sell out
While 'sell out' can mean compromising principles for personal gain, it often involves betraying a group or cause, a close cousin to the interpersonal betrayal of a 'double-cross'
Play both sides
This phrase describes the maneuvering inherent in setting up a 'double-cross', involving deception and a lack of commitment to any single party until the moment of betrayal
Rat on someone
This idiom involves betraying trust, often by informing on someone, which shares the core element of treachery with a 'double-cross' but typically focuses on revealing secrets rather than violating agreements