All is Fair in Love and War Idiom Meaning with Example

All is Fair in Love and War idiom is used to indicate an instance in which individuals act in a way that is inconsistent with accepted norms and is generally regarded as unfair. People are not constrained by the laws of fair play when love or war is at stake.

The expression “all is fair in love and war” can be traced back to John Lyly’s 1578 novel “Euphues: The Anatomy of Wit.” The story follows the love exploits of a successful and alluring young guy. There is a quotation in it that reads, “The rules of fair play do not apply in love and war.”

Let’s dig in deeper to know more about the idiom.

Usage with Examples

The adage “all is fair in love and war” can be used to describe a scenario at work when one employee looks to be the boss’s favourite and is always receiving benefits. This arrangement may seem unjust, but there are no rules prohibiting it, therefore you can use the expression.

Given below are a few examples of the idiom:

• John was determined to win Sarah’s heart, and he employed every possible tactic, such as showering her with compliments and gifts, because, in matters of love and war, all is fair.
• The two rival companies engaged in fierce competition for the contract, employing aggressive marketing strategies and engaging in price wars. In the world of business, the belief is that all is fair in love and war.
• The spy successfully infiltrated the enemy’s base using cunning tactics and deception, proving that in the realm of espionage, all is fair in love and war.

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All is Fair in Love and War Synonyms

A few synonyms of the idiom are:

• any conduct is okay in certain circumstances 
• rules of hard play are acceptable in war
• the end justifies the means
• unethical behaviour is allowed in some situations
• unfair behaviour is allowed in some situations 

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Meaning Quiz

Ben all the time says ‘All’s fair in love and war’. 

• He will use all means necessary to be with Clara because he has his sights set on her.
• He never stops saying that.
• He is very rude

Answer: He will use all means necessary to be with Clara because he has his sights set on her.

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom “All is Fair in Love and War idiom” meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used and what sort of feeling or meaning it conveys. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.