devil's advocate

/ˈdɛvəlz ˈædvəkɪt/◆idiom

person who argues against a claim to test its validity

Let me play devil's advocate here—what if our marketing strategy fails?

The speaker is suggesting a counterargument to evaluate the plan's risks.

◆ What It Really Means

To intentionally argue against a position to test its validity or uncover weaknesses, without necessarily believing in the counterargument.

¶ Literal Meaning

A person who argues on behalf of the devil (a literal advocate for evil).

Literal Breakdown

devil'srelating to the devil (a supernatural evil entity)+advocatea supporter or defender of a cause

◇ Mental Image

Mentally picture a courtroom where a lawyer (the devil's advocate) is arguing against a defendant's innocence to ensure the case is thoroughly examined.

◈ When to Use

During a team meeting, a manager says, 'Let's play devil's advocate—what if our new product launch fails due to supply chain issues?' Here, the manager is not genuinely predicting failure but is testing the team's preparedness.

◉ Cultural Note

The phrase originates from the Catholic Church's canonization process, where a 'devil's advocate' (advocatus diaboli) was appointed to argue against a candidate's sainthood. This role ensured that only the most virtuous individuals were canonized. The modern usage retains the idea of intentional opposition for the sake of thorough examination.

formal

a person who presents a counterargument to test the strength of an idea or plan

In the meeting, James played devil's advocate to challenge the new policy's feasibility.

James argued against the policy to see if it held up under scrutiny.

She always plays devil's advocate in discussions to ensure all sides are considered.

She intentionally opposes ideas to provoke deeper analysis.

Often used in debates, brainstorming, or strategic planning to uncover weaknesses or biases.

Collocations

play devil's advocateto intentionally argue against a position to test its validityact as devil's advocateto assume the role of someone opposing an idea

Synonyms

contrarian skeptic doubter naysayer

Antonyms

proponent advocate supporter

Related Phrases

play the devil's advocateidiom

to assume the role of devil's advocate

advocate for the devilidiom

to argue against a position to test its validity

Pro Tip

When to use

Use 'devil's advocate' when you want to challenge an idea in a constructive way, such as during brainstorming or strategic planning. It signals that you're not genuinely opposed but are testing the idea's robustness.

Gold Rule

Avoid misinterpretation

Never use 'devil's advocate' to describe someone who genuinely disagrees with an idea. The phrase implies a temporary, strategic role, not a permanent stance.

Word Origin

From the Catholic Church practice of appointing a 'devil's advocate' (Latin: *advocatus diaboli*) during canonization proceedings to argue against a candidate's sainthood, ensuring only the most worthy were recognized. The role was formalized in 1587 by Pope Sixtus V.

Usage Notes

Common in professional, academic, and informal settings. The phrase implies intentional opposition for the sake of discussion, not genuine disagreement. Avoid using it to describe someone who genuinely holds opposing views.

Word Breakdown

devil's

the devil (a figure representing evil or opposition)

noun

advocate

a person who publicly supports or argues for a cause

noun

English Dictionary

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