carry the can

/ˈkæɹi ðə kæn/
phrasal verb★Intermediate💡 take the blame◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
To accept unfair blame or responsibility for a mistake or failure, often when the blame is undeserved or disproportionate.
Literal Meaning
To physically hold a container (can) while someone assigns blame.
Literal Breakdown
carryto hold or transport something+the cana metal container for liquids or solids
◇ Mental Image
Imagine someone holding a can to catch blame like liquid, symbolizing being burdened with unfair responsibility.
◈ When to Use
In a team meeting, a project fails due to a senior member's oversight, but the junior team members are blamed. One of them might say, 'Why do we always have to carry the can for their mistakes?'
◉ Cultural Note
This idiom is particularly common in British English and reflects a cultural tendency to assign blame in hierarchical structures, such as workplaces or families.
informal

To take the blame or responsibility for a mistake or failure, often unfairly.

She had to carry the can for her coworker's error in the report.

She was blamed for a mistake she didn't make.

The CEO resigned to carry the can for the company's financial scandal.

The CEO took the blame for the scandal.

💡

Commonly used in workplace or group settings where blame is assigned to someone without sufficient justification.

Related Phrases

pass the buckidiom
to shift responsibility to someone else
scapegoatword
a person who is blamed for the wrongdoings of others

💡Pro Tip

When to use 'carry the can'

Use this idiom when someone is unfairly blamed for a mistake or failure, especially in a group or organizational setting. It conveys a sense of injustice or disproportionate blame.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid literal interpretation

This is an idiom, so the meaning is not related to carrying a physical can. Focus on the figurative meaning of taking the blame.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from British slang, likely from the 19th century. It metaphorically refers to someone holding a can (container) to catch blame or responsibility, similar to how a can might catch liquid. The imagery suggests being burdened with an unfair or unwanted task.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is often used in contexts where blame is assigned disproportionately, such as in group projects, corporate settings, or family disputes. It implies a sense of injustice or unfairness.

Word Breakdown

carry
to bear or hold
verb
+
the can
the blame or responsibility
noun phrase
English Dictionary