Scapegoat

A scapegoat is a person or group unfairly blamed for other people's faults or troubles. The word comes from the story of a goat sent into the wilderness carrying the people's sins in Leviticus, a book of the Bible.

Where it comes from

The goat carrying the people's sins

In Leviticus, the scapegoat is part of a religious ceremony. It carries away the community's sins rather than receiving blame for something it has actually done.

Aaron places his hands on a live goat and confesses the people's wrongs over it. The goat is then sent into the wilderness.

In The Bible by Various authors

Someone unfairly blamed

Today, a scapegoat takes blame that properly belongs to someone else or to a wider group. The word suggests that blaming this target lets others escape responsibility.

In Frankenstein, Justine is condemned for William's murder after evidence is planted on her. Victor knows that his creature is responsible, yet Justine bears the punishment.

In Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

How to use Scapegoat

Identify who is being blamed.
Explain whose responsibility is being avoided.
Use the word only when the blame is unfair or misplaced.

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Does a scapegoat have to be completely innocent?

No, a scapegoat need not be completely innocent. Someone may have made a mistake but still be unfairly blamed for a much larger failure. The important point is that the blame exceeds their responsibility and helps other people avoid scrutiny.

What is the difference between a scapegoat and a sacrifice?

A scapegoat carries blame, while a sacrifice involves giving up something valued or accepting a loss. In everyday use, calling someone a scapegoat stresses unfair responsibility. Calling someone a sacrifice may instead stress the cost they bear for another person's benefit.