en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Explaining "To the victor go the spoils"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 16/12/2024, 07:52
English.me team member

What does it mean?

To the victor go the spoils

The phrase "To the victor go the spoils" means that the winner of a conflict or competition gains the rewards or benefits that come from it. It implies that those who are successful are entitled to enjoy the advantages of their success.

Tone

Assertive and direct, often used in competitive or triumph-related contexts.

Origin

The phrase is attributed to New York Senator William L. Marcy in 1832, who said "To the victor belong the spoils", referring to the political patronage system in the United States where victorious parties would appoint supporters to public offices.

Examples of usage

  • After the election results were announced, the new mayor appointed all his loyal supporters to key positions—to the victor go the spoils.
  • In the competitive world of sports, to the victor go the spoils, including trophies, endorsements, and fame.
  • The successful acquisition meant they had control over the market; to the victor go the spoils.

Recommended posts in Phrases

You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink

You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make it drink

The phrase means that you can provide someone with an ... Learn more →

First things first

First things first

The phrase "First things first" means prioritizing the most important ... Learn more →

Once bitten, twice shy

Once bitten, twice shy

The phrase "Once bitten, twice shy" means that after experiencing ... Learn more →

Do not wash your dirty linen in public

Do not wash your dirty linen in public

The phrase means that one should not discuss private, embarrassing, ... Learn more →