Browse phrases beginning with: [A][B][C][D][E][F][G][H][I][J][K][L][M][N][O][P][Q][R][S][T][U,V][W][X,Y,Z]

He will give the Devil his due

Meaning

Literally, pay the devil what you owe him. Used figuratively to mean 'give back what you owe', either money or favours.

Origin

From Shakespeare's Henry IV Part 1, 1597:

Constable: I will cap that proverb with 'There is flattery in friendship.'
Orleans: And I will take up that with 'Give the devil his due.'

See other phrases and sayings from Shakespeare.

Phrasefinder is also on &

Tudor Phrases and Sayings - a book on the meanings and origins of the phrases and sayings that Shakespeare and Henry VIII used that we use still use every day.

phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The meaning and origin of the expression: He will give the Devil his due

He will give the Devil his due

Meaning

Origin