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The idiom “pot calling the kettle black” means criticizing someone else for a fault that you possess yourself. It implies hypocrisy, where the accuser shares the same flaw they are pointing out in the other person.
The idiom likely originates from the similarity in appearance between a blackened pot and a blackened kettle when they are heated over a fire. In olden times, both cooking utensils were often made of metal and would become black from soot during the cooking process.
When one accused the other of being black, it was an ironic observation since they both suffered the same “blackness.”
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Usage with Examples
Over time, the phrase gained metaphorical meaning, illustrating situations where someone denounces another for a fault that they are equally guilty of, exposing their own hypocrisy.
Today, “pot calling the kettle black” remains a common idiom used to highlight double standards and to remind people to be self-aware of their own faults before pointing fingers at others.
Mentioned below are some examples where you can use the idiom Pot Calling the Kettle Black:
- It’s ironic to hear Sarah criticize John’s punctuality when she’s always late herself—it’s like the pot calling the kettle black.
- The politician accused his opponent of dishonesty during the debate, but it was a classic case of the pot calling the kettle black, as both had been involved in questionable dealings.
- Jane called out her friend for being careless with money, but it was a case of the pot calling the kettle black, as Jane had a habit of overspending herself.
Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences, and Meanings
Synonyms and Similar Words to Pot Calling the Kettle Black
Mentioned below are some synonyms and related words to the pot calling the kettle black:
- Double standards
- Two-faced
- Hypocrisy
200+ English Idioms & Phrases with Quiz [ PDF]
Pot Calling the Kettle Black Meaning Quiz
1. What does the phrase “pot calling the kettle black” mean?
A) Appreciating someone’s qualities
B) Criticizing someone for a fault you also have
C) Giving someone helpful advice
D) Encouraging someone to improve
Answer: B) Criticizing someone for a fault you also have
2. Which of the following situations best reflects “the pot calling the kettle black”?
A) A teacher praising a student for hard work
B) A messy person calling someone else untidy
C) A doctor curing a patient
D) A friend helping another with homework
Answer:B) A messy person calling someone else untidy
3. What is the origin of the phrase “pot calling the kettle black”?
A) It comes from ancient Greek mythology.
B) It refers to kitchen cookware both getting blackened by fire.
C) It started as a phrase in sports competitions.
D) It was first used in military contexts.
Answer: B) It refers to kitchen cookware both getting blackened by fire.
4. Which synonym best matches the meaning of “pot calling the kettle black”?
A) Hypocrisy
B) Generosity
C) Honesty
D) Loyalty
Answer: A) Hypocrisy
5. If your friend always arrives late but complains about your tardiness, which phrase applies?
A) A stitch in time saves nine
B) Every cloud has a silver lining
C) The pot calling the kettle black
D) Actions speak louder than words
Answer: C) The pot calling the kettle black
6. In which scenario would the phrase “pot calling the kettle black” NOT apply?
A) A lazy person calling someone else unproductive
B) A thief accusing another of stealing
C) A chef teaching someone how to cook
D) A gossip complaining about someone spreading rumours
Answer: C) A chef teaching someone how to cook
7. Which famous literary work references a version of “the pot calling the kettle black”?
A) “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes
B) “Hamlet” by William Shakespeare
C) “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
D) “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Answer: A) “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes
8. What is the tone of the phrase “pot calling the kettle black”?
A) Serious and formal
B) Light-hearted and humorous
C) Critical and ironic
D) Encouraging and optimistic
Answer: C) Critical and ironic
9. Which of these phrases has a similar meaning to “pot calling the kettle black”?
A) Birds of a feather flock together
B) People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
C) The early bird catches the worm
D) You reap what you sow
Answer: B) People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
10. If someone uses “pot calling the kettle black,” they are likely pointing out:
A) Someone’s positive qualities
B) Someone’s similar faults
C) An interesting fact
D) A shared secret
Answer: B) Someone’s similar faults
Read about other idioms here:
FAQs
Here are some common English idioms and their meanings:
Piece of cake – Something very easy
Hit the nail on the head – To describe something accurately
Once in a blue moon – Something that happens very rarely
An idiom is a fixed phrase with a figurative meaning (e.g., “spill the beans” means to reveal a secret). A proverb is a short, common saying that offers wisdom or advice (e.g., “A stitch in time saves nine”).
Read widely, watch movies or shows in the language, practice using idioms in conversations, and keep a journal of new idioms you encounter.
Many idioms are shared, but some differ. For example, Americans say “kick the bucket” (to die), while Brits might use “pop one’s clogs” for the same meaning.
This was all about the idiom pot the kettle black meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept and had fun solving the quiz. For more blogs on Learn English, follow Leverage Edu.
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