'Acquit Oneself' Definition, Uses, Examples

The phrase “acquit oneself” is derived from the Latin verb acquitare, which means “to acquit, acquitment, or acquittal”. In English, it is used to refer to one’s performance in a particular endeavor or task. This phrase is often used in a positive sense, indicating that one has done something in a satisfactory manner.

For example, one might say “John acquitted himself well in the debate”, meaning that John performed well in the debate. This phrase can also be used in a negative sense, indicating that one has not met expectations, such as “John didn’t acquit himself well in the debate”.

The phrase “acquit oneself” is also sometimes used to refer to a person’s character or behavior, such as “John acquits himself with honor and integrity”, which indicates that John’s behavior is honorable and respectable. As such, this phrase can be used to describe one’s moral standing or reputation.

Here are more examples of the idiomatic expression 'acquit oneself'':

John acquitted himself well in the soccer match.
Sally acquitted herself with honor in the debate.
Mary acquitted herself admirably on her job interview.
The team acquitted themselves of their duties.
The student acquitted himself of his exams with flying colors.
The actor acquitted himself with great skill in the play.
The athlete acquitted herself of her challenges.
The chef acquitted himself of his responsibilities.
The musician acquitted himself with finesse.
The scientist acquitted himself of his task with excellence.

The phrase “acquit oneself” can also be used in a metaphorical sense to refer to any kind of success or achievement, such as “John acquitted himself of his exams with flying colors”. This phrase is also used to indicate that one has done something in a satisfactory manner, such as “John acquitted himself of his duties”.

The phrase “acquit oneself” is also often used in a more abstract sense, such as “John acquitted himself of his responsibilities”, which indicates that he fulfilled his obligations. Similarly, it can be used to refer to a person’s attitude and demeanor, such as “John acquitted himself admirably in his interview”.

In conclusion, the phrase “acquit oneself” is a versatile phrase that can be used to refer to a person’s performance or attitude in a particular endeavor or task, or to describe one’s character or reputation.