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What does "Play devil’s advocate" mean?
To 'play devil's advocate' means to take a position or argue a point that one does not necessarily agree with, often for the sake of debate or to explore the validity of an idea.
When do you use "Play devil’s advocate"?
Use this phrase when someone is intentionally taking an opposing viewpoint in discussions, debates, or brainstorming sessions to stimulate critical thinking and ensure all perspectives are considered.
"Play devil’s advocate" Usage Examples
- During our team meeting, I decided to play devil's advocate to test the strength of our marketing strategy.
- Even though I support the new policy, I played devil's advocate to help my colleagues see potential drawbacks.
- In the discussion about climate change solutions, she often plays devil's advocate to encourage deeper analysis of each proposal.
- He played devil's advocate in the argument, forcing us to think critically about the implications of our plans.
- To ensure a balanced discussion, I will play devil's advocate and raise some concerns about the project's feasibility.
"Play devil’s advocate" Explained
The phrase originates from the Roman Catholic Church, where the 'devil's advocate' (Latin: 'advocatus diaboli') was an official role in canonization processes. This person would argue against the canonization of a candidate for sainthood, challenging the evidence and claims made in favor of the candidate. The purpose was to ensure that the decision was thoroughly examined and not made hastily. Over time, the term has evolved into a broader usage in discussions and debates.