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A coup de grâce (/ ˌkuː də ˈɡrɑːs /; French: [ku də ɡʁɑs] ⓘ 'blow of mercy') is a death blow to end the suffering of a severely wounded person or animal. [1][2] It may be a mercy killing of mortally wounded civilians or soldiers, friends or enemies, with or without the sufferer's consent.
COUP DE GRÂCE definition: 1. an action that ends something that has been gradually getting worse: 2. an action that ends…. Learn more.
The meaning of COUP DE GRÂCE is a death blow or death shot administered to end the suffering of one mortally wounded. How to use coup de grâce in a sentence. Did you know?
- What Is A Coup de Grace?
- Historical and Linguistic Origins
- Beyond The Battlefield
- Coup de Grace in Literary and Cinematic Masterpieces
- Symbolism and Interpretation of Coup de Grace
- Modern World Examples
- Everyday Life Examples
- Ethical Considerations of Coup de Grace
- Moral Dilemmas
- Medical Ethics: Addressing Moral Complexity
The term “coup de grâce” originates from the French language, where “coup” means a stroke or blow, and “grâce” translates to mercy or favor. Taken together, the phrase refers to a merciful or decisive action that brings an end to something, typically in a swift and conclusive manner. In its original context, coup de grace was often associated with ...
The term “coup de grâce” has a rich history that can be traced back to its early military origins and its adaptation to various contexts throughout history, such as: 1. The French Revolution 2. World War II 3. The Cold War
The concept of coup de grace extends beyond the realm of physical combat and warfare. It can be applied to various aspects of life, including:
The concept of coup de grace has been featured in various famous literary and cinematic works, offering thought-provoking perspectives on this resonant theme. A few noteworthy examples are highlighted below:
The term “coup de grace” carries significant metaphorical and symbolic weight in various artistic works. The act of delivering a swift and decisive end can be used to symbolize both mercy and cruelty, depending on the context in which it appears.
Political Scenarios
In the political sphere, coup de grace often refers to a power move that brings a decisive end to a conflict or struggle. For instance, in the world of diplomacy, trade agreements often play a crucial role in determining who has the upper hand geopolitically. 1. An example of a coup de grace is the resignation of a high-level government official during a scandal. This move can effectively terminate their political career and change the dynamics within the power structure. 2. Another example w...
Corporate Realm
In the world of business, coup de grace can refer to actions that lead to significant changes in market dominance or competition. 1. For instance, a takeover or merger might be considered a coup de grace for a struggling company, as it potentially results in either the company’s revival or demise. 2. Another example can involve launching a new product or service that effectively disrupts the market, causing serious damage to competitors and establishing a new industry standard. Such actions h...
Although coup de grace generally refers to a decisive finishing blow, we can also trace its use and examples in various aspects of everyday life.
The act of delivering a coup de grace raises several ethical concerns, particularly within the context of warfare and mercy killings. 1. Justification, stress, and impaired judgment One major concern involves the potential for human rights abuses. Soldiers may find themselves in situations where it becomes difficult to determine whether a coup de g...
While the intentions behind a coup de grace may be to alleviate suffering, it inevitably raises several moral questions. These situations often involve matters of consent, control, and responsibility.
The debate surrounding the ethical considerations of coup de grace often falls within the purview of medical ethics, wherein healthcare professionals must navigate complex moral dilemmas. Example: Euthanasia and physician-assisted death are contentious issues that parallel the central ethical questions surrounding coup de grace. Appropriate trainin...
a death blow, especially one delivered mercifully to end suffering. any finishing or decisive stroke. The final blow: “He had been getting deeper and deeper in debt; the fates delivered the coup de grâce when he died.”. The phrase is French for “stroke of mercy.”.
COUP DE GRÂCE meaning: 1 : an action or event that finally ends or destroys something that has been getting weaker or worse; 2 : a hit or shot that kills a person or animal that is suffering.
noun. /ˌkuː də ˈɡrɑːs/ IPA: Dictionary definition of coup-de-grace. A decisive action or blow that ends something, such as a battle or a struggle. "The scandal was the coup de grace that led to the downfall of the politician." Detailed meaning of coup-de-grace.
