Meaning of be the bigger man | Babel Free

Definitions

To walk away from a conflict to prevent it from escalating.

idiomatic, informal

Examples

“Even if it's in retaliation for a roommate disrespecting your room, be the bigger Man and leave⟳ his room alone.”

“I left 'em in the evidence locker. Someday, he's gonna come⟳ apologizing to me and I'll be the bigger man and let⟳ him have⟳ 'em.”

“I remember⟳ at a very early age being taught that, when faced with the prospect of fighting, I should always be the bigger man and walk⟳ away from it. It's something young boys hear⟳ over and over again in their early life. The idea of being the 'bigger man' evokes the belief that those who don't fight⟳ are, in fact, superior in their masculinity as they don't have⟳ to prove⟳ their dominance physically.”

CEFR level