Le 11 février 2023
Culture points

Hat-related expressions

Hat-related expressions are phrases that reference a hat or its use. They are often used to express an idea in a figurative or humorous way. Here are some common examples of hat-related expressions: "Put on one's cowboy hat": to make a bold decision or show independence and initiative.

"Take off one's hat": to bow or show respect.

"Throw one's hat in the ring": to fully commit oneself to an activity or project.

"Take one's hat": to leave or exit the premises.

"Juggling hats": managing multiple tasks or responsibilities simultaneously.

"Change hats": to change roles or perspectives.

"Hats off, hat's off, tip of the hat"

"Working from the hat" The expression "working from the hat" is a humorous or ironic expression meaning that someone is talking nonsense or being delirious. It can be linked to the history of hatters, who were exposed to mercury vapors during the felt hat manufacturing process. These mercury vapors made hatters sick, causing mental disorders, hence the British expression "mad as a hatter." Fortunately, this practice has become obsolete and mercury is no longer used in hat making.

"Pin the blame on someone" The expression "pin the blame on someone" means to unfairly or without evidence attribute the responsibility or guilt for an unfavorable situation or mistake to someone else. This expression implies that blame is assigned to someone else to absolve oneself, even though the person being blamed may not be responsible for the situation in question. The expression can also mean forcing someone to take responsibility for a mistake or unfavorable situation, without considering the circumstances or external factors that may have contributed to the situation. In conclusion, "pinning the blame on someone" means unfairly or without evidence attributing the responsibility or guilt for an unfavorable situation or mistake to someone else, either to absolve oneself or to force that person to take responsibility.

"Eat one's hat" The expression "eat one's hat" means to publicly admit that one was wrong or has been defeated, and therefore accept the consequences of this failure. This expression implies that the person who made a mistake or was defeated is ready to publicly admit their failure and face the consequences. The expression "eat one's hat" can also mean that the person who made a mistake or was defeated is ready to make a symbolic gesture to show humility and repentance, such as actually eating a hat or doing something similar. In conclusion, "eating one's hat" means publicly admitting failure, accepting the consequences, and making a symbolic gesture to show humility and repentance.

"Tip one's hat" The expression "tip one's hat" means to make a gesture of recognition or thanks to someone for their work, achievements, or commitment. This gesture can take the form of a physical action, such as slightly tilting one's hat to greet someone, or a verbal declaration, such as publicly stating that one is impressed or grateful towards someone. The expression "tip one's hat" is often used to acknowledge someone's merit and talent, or to show gratitude towards someone for their support and help. In conclusion, "tipping one's hat" means making a gesture of recognition or thanks to someone for their work, achievements, or commitment, in order to acknowledge their merit and talent or to express gratitude for their support and help.

The expression "golden parachute pension" refers to having a retirement pension that doesn't depend on a mandatory retirement scheme, but is funded by a different source, often a company or employer. A "golden parachute" pension may also include additional benefits, such as health insurance or healthcare programs. This expression comes from the fact that these retirement pensions are often considered as additional bonuses "on top" of mandatory retirement schemes, and are compared to a hat that covers and protects the head. In conclusion, "having a golden parachute pension" means having a retirement pension that is not linked to a mandatory retirement scheme, but is funded by a different source and may include additional benefits.


These expressions are often used to give a concrete and memorable image of a situation or idea. They can add color and humor to a conversation or speech, and help convey a message effectively. However, as with hat expressions, it's important to use hat-related expressions tactfully and adapt them to the characteristics of the subject, occasion, and audience.

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