单词 | noblesse oblige |
释义 | noblesse oblige (once / 18045 pages) n Noblesse oblige is the idea that if you’re of noble birth or basically super rich, it’s your duty act right and help others. It’s French for the “nobility obliges.” So, trust fund kids, get thee to the soup kitchen! The concept of noblesse oblige has been around much longer than the actual phrase, which was first recorded in English in 1837. As long ago as ancient Greece, aristocrats have mulled over their obligations to society. While the result of noblesse oblige can be positive, historically it's been used to justify the privilege of wealthy and powerful people. Now, sometimes people refer to noblesse oblige in a sassy, ironic way. WORD FAMILYnoblesse oblige USAGE EXAMPLESBy contrast the British royals, raised on noblesse oblige, largely limited their public appearances to celebrations on behalf of hospitals, schools and other worthy causes. Wall Street Journal(Nov 22, 2016) The novel juxtaposes the ideals of loyalty, service, patriotism and noblesse oblige against the venality of contemporary Wall Street. Washington Post(Nov 17, 2016) “You’ve got true noblesse oblige, Mountain Goat,” Dad would say. Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle(2005) n the obligation of those of high rank to be honorable and generous (often used ironically) Hyper duty, obligation, responsibility the social force that binds you to the courses of action demanded by that force |
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