English Explanatory Dictionary

more honored in the breach

English dictionary entry

Meanings

phrase
  1. Justifiably violated; endowing greater moral standing to those who disobey. (of a rule, custom, etc.)
  2. Frequently or usually broken in practice, with obedience being the exception. (of a rule, custom, etc.)

Word forms

more honored in the breach

Etymology

Coined by William Shakespeare in 1602 in "Hamlet," act 1, scene 4: : But to my mind, though I am native here : And to the manner born, it is a custom : More honored in the breach than the observance.

Related words

honor in the breach exception that proves the rule in spirit spirit of the law to the manner born
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