scapegoat
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈskeɪpˌɡoʊt/
KK: /ˈskeɪpˌɡoʊt/
noun
Definition
A person or thing that is unfairly blamed for problems or negative outcomes, often to divert attention from the real cause.
Example
In the team meeting, John became the scapegoat for the project's failure, even though others were also responsible.
Conversation
I don't think it's fair to make him the scapegoat for the team's poor performance.
Yeah, it seems like everyone is blaming him instead of looking at the real issues.
Exactly! It's always easier to find a scapegoat than to take responsibility.
For sure, but that just makes things worse in the long run.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fallguy
patsy
victim
Antonyms
benefactor
hero
savior
transitive verb
Definition
To blame someone or something for problems or mistakes that they did not cause, often to divert attention from the real issue.
Example
The manager scapegoated the intern for the project's failure, even though the problems were due to his own decisions.
Tense Forms
Past: scapegoated
Past Participle: scapegoated
Conversation
I can't believe they decided to scapegoat Mark for the project's failure.
I know, right? It wasn't all his fault at all.
Exactly! It's so unfair to just put all the blame on him.
Root Explanation
Scapegoat → The word is formed from "scape" (from Old English *sceap*, meaning sheep) and "goat" (meaning the animal goat). The term originally referred to a goat that was sent into the wilderness after the Jewish high priest symbolically laid the sins of the people upon it, thus carrying away their sins. In modern usage, it refers to a person or group unfairly blamed for problems or misdeeds.
Memory Tip
Imagine a sheep being sent away to carry the burdens of others — that's how scapegoat means someone who takes on blame for others.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.