live by the sword, die by the sword

This proverb, originating from the Gospel of Matthew, suggests that those who use violence or aggressive means can expect to face similar outcomes.

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Definition

(figurative)To suffer the consequences of one's violent or aggressive actions.

He always resorted to threats and intimidation, but in the end, he lived by the sword and died by the sword.

(figurative)To experience negative outcomes due to one's own harmful or unethical practices.

The corrupt official eventually faced justice, proving that those who live by the sword, die by the sword.

(figurative)To face retribution or downfall because of one's use of force or deceit.

The gang leader's violent reign ended abruptly, a classic case of living by the sword and dying by the sword.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "live by the sword, die by the sword":