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You can't kid a kidder

Posted by Lewis on June 23, 2006

In Reply to: "Can't fool the fool" posted by Jonathan on June 22, 2006

: What is the origin and meaning of the oxymoronic phrase "can't fool the fool" if any?

it is a variation on the idea of the "poacher turned game-keeper" idea or "set a thief to catch a thief" - i.e. that somebody who is dishonest can spot and catch out another one. it is the opposite of 'honour amongst thieves', I suppose.

L

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