More honoured in the breach than in the observance Meaning

Term: More honoured in the breach than in the observance

Definition and Meaning

The phrase “more honoured in the breach than in the observance” is an idiomatic expression that suggests something (usually a rule, tradition, or convention) is acknowledged and discussed more when it is violated (the breach) than when it is followed (the observance). In simpler terms, it means that people often pay more attention to rules when they are broken rather than when they are adhered to.

Etymology

The phrase originates from William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet”, specifically in Act 1, Scene 4. It reflects the complexities of human behavior towards social norms, highlighting a tendency to focus on exceptions or violations rather than compliance.

Literal and Figurative Uses

• Literal Use: The term observes how a particular rule or custom is acknowledged more when it is disregarded. For example, people might criticize or discuss someone when they violate curfews more than when they follow them.

• Figurative Use: In a broader context, the phrase implies that society often pays more attention to scandals or misbehavior than to proper conduct.

Common Phrases or Idioms Featuring the Term

While “more honoured in the breach than in the observance” is a standalone phrase, it is related to idioms such as:

• “Breaking the rules”
• “Rules are meant to be broken”
• “Ignorance of the law is no excuse”

Contextual Usage & Example Sentences

1. In our school, the dress code is more honoured in the breach than in the observance, as students rarely follow it but always talk about it.
2. The law against littering seems to be more honoured in the breach than in the observance, with many people ignoring it in public parks.
3. In our family, the tradition of Sunday dinners is more honoured in the breach than in the observance, as we often skip them.
4. The manager realized that the company’s safety protocols were more honoured in the breach than in the observance when he received reports of unsafe practices.
5. Some say that local traffic laws are more honoured in the breach than in the observance in our busy city.
6. The committee found that environmental regulations were more honoured in the breach than in the observance by local businesses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

• Ignored
• Disregarded
• Overlooked
• Violated

Antonyms:

• Observed
• Followed
• Adhered to
• Abided by

This phrase serves as a cautionary reminder of the complexities of societal norms and the human tendency to prioritize the sensational over the commonplace, illustrating a critical perspective on human nature and societal behavior.

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