How Do You Spell SAIL UNDER FALSE COLORS?

Pronunciation: [sˈe͡ɪl ˌʌndə fˈɒls kˈʌləz] (IPA)

The phrase "sail under false colors" means to deceive or disguise one's true intentions. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "sail" is pronounced /seɪl/, with the "ai" diphthong representing a long "a" sound. "Under" is pronounced /ˈʌndər/, with a schwa sound in the first syllable and a short "u" sound in the second. "False" is pronounced /fɔːls/, with a long "o" sound and a voiceless "s" at the end. And "colors" is pronounced /ˈkʌlərz/, with the stressed syllable containing a short "u" sound and the ending "-s" pronounced as a voiced "z" sound.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Idioms
Basic Check Advanced Check

SAIL UNDER FALSE COLORS Meaning and Definition

  1. To "sail under false colors" is an idiomatic expression that originated from maritime terminology and refers to a deceptive or dishonest practice. The phrase encompasses the act of intentionally misrepresenting oneself or one's intentions to gain an advantage or deceive others.

    The idiom's literal meaning originates from the practice of ships hoisting flags or "colors" to indicate their national affiliation or allegiance. In cases of piracy or clandestine activities, a vessel would disguise itself by flying the colors of a different country, making it appear harmless or friendly. By doing so, the ship could approach others without raising suspicion or triggering defensive measures.

    Metaphorically, "sailing under false colors" describes a person or entity pretending to be something they are not, often to achieve personal gain or deceive others for ulterior motives. This could include disguising one's true intentions, making false promises, or assuming a false identity to deceive or manipulate others.

    The phrase is commonly used to depict situations where someone portrays themselves dishonestly, such as pretending to be a helpful friend while secretly plotting against someone or feigning expertise in a particular field to gain trust for personal advantage.

    Overall, "sailing under false colors" implies a deliberate act of deception, in which individuals or entities hide their true intentions or identity for their own benefit, typically at the expense of others.

Common Misspellings for SAIL UNDER FALSE COLORS

  • aail under false colors
  • zail under false colors
  • xail under false colors
  • dail under false colors
  • eail under false colors
  • wail under false colors
  • szil under false colors
  • ssil under false colors
  • swil under false colors
  • sqil under false colors
  • saul under false colors
  • sajl under false colors
  • sakl under false colors
  • saol under false colors
  • sa9l under false colors
  • sa8l under false colors
  • saik under false colors
  • saip under false colors
  • saio under false colors
  • sail ynder false colors

Idioms with the word SAIL UNDER FALSE COLORS

  • sail under false colors To deceive or mislead someone by pretending to be someone or something else; to act in a dishonest or fraudulent manner.

Infographic

Correct spelling for sail under false colors
Add the infographic to your website: