Cook one's goose




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Cook one's goose : Phrases



Meaning:

To put someone at a disadvantage; to thwart their efforts to achieve a goal.


Example:







Origin:

The phrase is recorded in an 1851 London street ballard, but its origin is obscure. Suggestions range from Eric, King of Sweden, coming to a certain town with very few soldiers. The enemy, in mockery, hung out a goose for him to shoot at. Finding, however, that the king meant business, and that it would be no laughing matter for them, they sent heralds to ask him what he wanted. To cook your goose for you, he facetiously replied.

Alternative: The origin might come from the The Goose that laid the Golden Egg where the greed of the peasants caused the goose to be killed. In truth, no one knows for sure.





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