Example: En la reunión, el jefe no dejó títere con cabeza criticando todos.
Definition
"No dejar títere con cabeza" is a Spanish expression meaning to harshly criticize or attack everyone involved in a situation, leaving no one unscathed. It implies thorough and relentless criticism, often in a public or social context.
Translations
to criticize everyone
iedereen afkraken
no deixar res dret
ne rien épargner
alles und jeden kritisieren
Etymology
The phrase "no dejar títere con cabeza" literally means 'not leaving a puppet with a head,' evoking an image of completely dismantling or destroying something. It originates from the idea of destroying all puppets in a show, leaving none intact, symbolizing total criticism or attack. Did you know this vivid image is used metaphorically to emphasize thoroughness?
Learn to use this expression actively
"No dejar títere con cabeza" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C2) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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to criticize everyone