proverb · Words worth keeping
It's an ill battle where the devil carries the colours.
It's an ill battle where the devil carries the colours.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
An undertaking is compromised when its guiding purpose is harmful. The devil carrying the colours pictures a troubling cause at the head of the effort.
Example
A campaign gains support, but a participant questions whether its stated aim depends on humiliating an innocent person.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The battle’s standard normally signals what its participants are following. Giving that role to the devil makes the purpose itself a reason to question the struggle, however vigorous its supporters may be. A careful reading examines the methods and aims of an undertaking rather than assuming success will justify them. The religious image should not be used as evidence that an opponent is evil. Disagreement requires reasons, not merely a hostile label.
When to use it
Use it to examine whether an effort’s guiding purpose deserves support.
Keep in mind
Calling an opponent evil does not establish that their cause is wrong.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English