THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Carry the can
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To take the blame or responsibility when something goes wrong.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- The assistant was left to carry the can for a decision made by the whole team.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
The assistant was left to ________ for a decision made by the whole team.
Show the answer
Carry the can — To take the blame or responsibility when something goes wrong.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Carry the can” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
To take the blame or responsibility when something goes wrong.
Compare: The assistant was left to carry the can for a decision made by the whole team.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this informal UK expression when someone is left responsible for a failure, often unfairly. It can express frustration.
More examples in context
- I will take responsibility for my mistake, but I should not carry the can for everyone else.
- When the launch failed, the manager had to carry the can.
Usage note
The expression concerns blame for an unsuccessful or wrong action, not simply any responsibility. It often suggests that blame has fallen on one person.
A short conversation
A: Why was only Nina criticised for the missed booking?
B: She was left to carry the can, although the instructions were unclear for everyone.
A: We should review the process fairly.
One more practice question
Who carries the can after a shared mistake?
A. The person who is never held responsible and receives only praise.
B. The person who receives the blame or responsibility for it.
Check your answer
B. Carrying the can means bearing blame or responsibility for the failure.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.