Benedict Arnold

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Thân thiện
Definition

Proper noun 1. Historical figure: Benedict Arnold was a military officer who served as a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He is primarily remembered for betraying the American cause by attempting to surrender the fort at West Point to the British in 1780. 2. Byword for treason: The name "Benedict Arnold" is used as a synonym for a traitor, especially one who betrays their country, cause, or associates.

Usage Examples

  • Proper noun (referring to the person):

    • The history lesson covered the complex legacy of Benedict Arnold.
    • Benedict Arnold was once a respected American general before his defection.

  • Proper noun (used as an epithet for a traitor):

    • After he leaked the company's secrets to a competitor, they called him a Benedict Arnold.
    • In politics, switching parties can lead to being labeled a Benedict Arnold by former allies.
Advanced Usage
  • "a Benedict Arnold": A common noun phrase used to label someone as a traitor.
    • He was seen as a Benedict Arnold for testifying against his former partners.
Variants and Related Words
  • Arnoldian (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of Benedict Arnold or his actions (used rarely in historical analysis).
  • Turncoat (n): A synonym for traitor or defector, often used interchangeably with the figurative sense of "Benedict Arnold."
Synonyms
  • Traitor: One who betrays a trust, allegiance, or cause.
  • Defector: A person who deserts a party, cause, or nation for another.
  • Betrayer: One who reveals information or acts treacherously.
Related Idioms and Phrases
  • To pull a Benedict Arnold: (Informal idiom) To commit an act of betrayal or treason.
    • He pulled a Benedict Arnold by giving our project plans to the rival team.
Noun
  1. United States general and traitor in the American Revolution; in 1780 his plan to surrender West Point to the British was foiled (1741-1801)

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