How Do You Spell SOLD DOWN RIVER?

Pronunciation: [sˈə͡ʊld dˌa͡ʊn ɹˈɪvə] (IPA)

The phrase "sold down river" is often spelled with "downriver" or "down the river," but its origin is rooted in the history of the United States. IPA phonetic transcription for the word would be /səʊld daʊn ˈrɪvə/. During the 19th century, slave traders in the South would sell slaves from the Upper South to the Lower South by sending them down the Mississippi River. This phrase became a metaphor for betrayal or being deceived, as the slaves were often sent to harsher conditions and separated from their families when sold down river.

Meaning and Definition
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SOLD DOWN RIVER Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "sold down river" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the United States during the era of slavery. It carries a figurative meaning of betrayal, deception, or the act of being betrayed by someone whom you trust.

    Literally, the term refers to the practice of enslavers or slave traders taking enslaved individuals from their homes in the Upper South and selling them to plantations further down the Mississippi River in the Lower South. The journey downriver was often perilous and marked by harsh conditions, making it a daunting and unpleasant experience for those who were forcefully relocated.

    Figuratively, "sold down river" denotes being betrayed or deceived by someone close, whether in personal or professional relationships. The phrase implies a sense of abandonment and dispossession, as if one's interests or well-being have been sacrificed for someone else's gain or advantage. It carries connotations of disloyalty, manipulation, and a breach of trust that can leave a lasting impact.

    Today, "sold down river" is used in a broader context beyond the historical slavery reference. It serves as a metaphorical expression highlighting the feelings of being let down, taken advantage of, or betrayed by someone who was expected to act in one's best interests.

Common Misspellings for SOLD DOWN RIVER

  • aold down river
  • zold down river
  • xold down river
  • dold down river
  • eold down river
  • wold down river
  • sild down river
  • skld down river
  • slld down river
  • spld down river
  • s0ld down river
  • s9ld down river
  • sokd down river
  • sopd down river
  • sood down river
  • sols down river
  • solx down river
  • solc down river
  • solf down river
  • solr down river