Make no mistake

Posted by Henry on September 22, 2004

In Reply to: Make no mistake posted by R. Berg on September 22, 2004

: : : I was wondering if anybody knew the origin and meaning of the phrase 'Make no mistake'

: : I am not sure how to explain this phrase.

: : Merriam-Webster:

: : Mistake (verb):
: : 2 a : to misunderstand the meaning or intention of : MISINTERPRET Don't mistake me, I mean exactly what I said.

: : "Make no mistake" means "don't misunderstand this" or "don't get this wrong." "Let's be clear on this." It is a way of telling the listener to pay attention and "listen up."

: : Anyone else got an answer?

: To me, it always sounds like a way of saying "If you don't believe what I say next, you're making a big mistake" - that is, "I know I'm right!" It's one of George W. Bush's favorite phrases, or his speechwriters', and it's become popular since he took office.

: People used to say "There's no two ways about it" as a similar expression of confidence in an assertion.

A word to the wise - another phrase that warns you that some personal prejudice is likely to follow.