Definition

1. Verb:
   • To use a name, especially a sacred or respected name, in an improper, disrespectful, or casual manner: The phrase specifically denotes invoking or mentioning a name (traditionally "God") without the requisite reverence, seriousness, or legitimate purpose. It implies a trivialization or misuse of something considered holy or profoundly important.

Usage

• This verb phrase is typically used in formal, religious, or serious contexts to criticize speech considered blasphemous or irreverent.
• It is often constructed as "take [Name] in vain," most famously in the biblical commandment "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain."
• It describes an action, not a state of being.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The preacher warned the congregation not to take God's name in vain.
  • She felt he was taking her father's memory in vain by using it to justify his own actions.
  • "Oh my God!" can be considered taking the Lord's name in vain by some religious traditions.

Advanced Usage

• Extended Meaning: While primarily religious, the phrase can be extended metaphorically to describe using any revered concept, person's memory, or principle lightly or for insincere purposes.
  • The politician was accused of taking the ideals of democracy in vain during his self-serving speech.

Variants and Related Words

• Blaspheme (verb): To speak irreverently about God or sacred things; a stronger, more direct synonym.
• Misuse (verb): To use something incorrectly or improperly; a more general term.
• Profane (verb): To treat (something sacred) with irreverence or disrespect.

Synonyms

• Blaspheme against
• Use irreverently
• Profane

Related Phrases

• "Take the Lord's name in vain": The most common and specific instantiation of the phrase.
• "Use in vain": A broader phrase meaning to use something without success or to no good purpose (e.g., "All our efforts were in vain"). Note: This is a different, though related, construction.

Verb

1. use a name, such as God, without proper respect