The judge decided to split the baby to end the argument.
split the baby
idiomTo resolve a dispute in a way that is disadvantageous to both parties.
Origin
disputed originIn reference to the Judgment of Solomon.
Instead of choosing one winner, the manager tried to split the baby, leaving both employees unhappy with the result.
By attempting to split the baby in the contract negotiations, the mediator inadvertently ensured that neither company walked away satisfied with the final terms.
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baby and bathwater
Used in reference to an error in which something valuable is discarded in the process of removing or rejecting something unwanted.
- 02
baby elephant in the room
An obvious but mostly inconsequential issue.
- 03
baby step
A small effort made towards the completion of a much larger task.
- 04
baby up
To treat as a baby.
- 05
basin of gravy
[Cockney slang]baby
- 06
be left holding the baby
To be left with the responsibility of resolving a problem.
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food baby
A protruding belly resulting from the consumption of a large quantity of food; the contents of one's digestive system causing the protrusion.
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leave someone holding the baby
To abandon someone and put them in a position where they must take the responsibility or blame.