"A get-out-of-jail-free card" is a common idiom referring to anything that allows someone to avoid a negative consequence, punishment, or undesirable situation. It's a metaphorical extension of the card from the board game Monopoly that allows a player to be released from jail without penalty.
The figurative use of the term "get-out-of-jail-free card" can be applied to various situations where someone manages to escape a difficult or unpleasant situation. For example, a political candidate might be seen as having a "get-out-of-jail-free card" if they are able to avoid scrutiny for past mistakes due to their popularity. Similarly, someone might use the term to describe a legal strategy that allows them to avoid prosecution.
- From Google with editing
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The problem of having only one child is that you have to be his/her playmate for board games, even if you ain't interested.
I'm never good at any games, board or card, just don't have the patience and the brain for that much thinking and that many tricks.
But I had to learn chess and Monopoly to play with my son at home when he was young, so I vaguely remember the precious "get-out-of-jail-free card".
What reminded me of the term was actually an article from yesterday's "The Globe & Mail" where the writer talked about how to budget and plan for unexpected financial windfalls.
She wrote"I often see people use their bonus as a get-out-of-jail free card. Throughout the year, they spend beyond their regular salary and rack up credit-card or line-of-credit debt. They then use their bonus to pay down their debt. ..."
Alright, no more get-out-of-jail free cards for me, and I'm going to take care of my gardens (see pics below).
Wish you all a good Wednesday!
1. Ahh, ran into a Charlotte's Web @ the front door this morning
2. Be happy under the morning sun