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Region: Global | Usage example: The apology felt like a get-out-of-jail-free card.

Get out of jail free

Meaning

Avoid punishment or responsibility easily.

Usage

Used when someone escapes consequences unexpectedly.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Borrowed from the Monopoly game card that granted leniency.

Entered slang after Monopoly debuted in the 1930s.

Related Idioms

The best things in life are free

The most valuable joys cannot be bought.

Go the extra mile

Put in more effort than is required.

Lost in translation

Subtle meaning or nuance that does not survive translation from one language to another.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.