# take the rap

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-the-rap
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be blamed or punished for something, especially for the wrongful actions of another; to willingly allow oneself to be so blamed or punished.

## Examples

- He decided to take the rap for his friend's mistake.
- Even though the manager made the error, the assistant chose to take the rap to protect the team.
- Rather than exposing the true culprit and causing a public scandal, the loyal employee agreed to take the rap for the financial discrepancy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.