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carry the can

Idioms  
  1. Take responsibility or accept blame, as in Joan felt she was always carrying the can for her boss's errors. [Slang; second half of 1900s]


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In addition, he says he was angered that European allies were not doing enough financially to help the beleaguered country, leaving the United States to carry the can.

From Washington Post • Nov. 11, 2019

Fyre was particularly objectionable because of the way its failure’s effects extended to those even less able to carry the can for a terrible idea: the Bahamians left unpaid and out-of pocket.

From The Guardian • Feb. 26, 2019

Hamburg coach Markus Gisdol called the broadcasting issues “a catastrophe for football. The fan has to carry the can for everything.”

From Washington Times • Sep. 9, 2017

"Could they end up at the end of the day with 'I don't know who did it'? Somebody has to carry the can."

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2015

London's second opera company, which is rebounding from a huge deficit in the 2011-2012 season, is counting on popular productions like this to fill seats and carry the can for more esoteric offerings.

From Reuters • Oct. 25, 2013