Definition

Verb: - To accept blame or punishment for something, especially for a mistake or failure that may not be solely one's own responsibility. It implies bearing the burden of negative consequences.

Usage

This phrasal verb is used to describe the action of taking responsibility, often when others avoid it. It is typically used in informal contexts. - It is often used in the simple past or present perfect tense to describe an accepted consequence. - It can be used with a modifier like "always" or "have to" to indicate a recurring situation.

Examples

• When the project failed, the junior manager had to carry the can for the team's collective mistakes.
• I'm not going to carry the can for your poor decisions.
• He always seems to carry the can when things go wrong in the office.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase often carries a connotation of unfairness, suggesting the person "carrying the can" is a scapegoat.
• It can be used in passive constructions, though this is less common.
  • The can was carried by the most inexperienced member of the group.

Variants and Related Words

• Carry the blame: A more literal and formal synonym.
• Take the fall (idiom): A very close synonym with a similar informal register.
• Face the music (idiom): To accept the unpleasant consequences, especially criticism or punishment.

Synonyms

• Take the blame
• Bear the responsibility
• Shoulder the burden

Related Idioms

• Hold the bag: (US English) To be left with the responsibility or blame.
  • His partners fled, leaving him to hold the bag.
• Take the rap: To accept punishment, especially legal punishment, for something.
  • He refused to take the rap for a crime he didn't commit.

Verb

1. accept the unpleasant consequences of one's actions