There are many expressions that we use in our everyday language without really thinking about their origins. One such expression is “the devil made me do it.” But what does this actually mean and where did it come from? In this blog post, we will explore the history of this phrase and discuss what it means for us today.
What ‘The Devil Made Me Do It’ Means

“The devil made me do it” is often used to describe someone who has done something bad or evil. Additionally, it implies that the person was not in control of their actions and that they were forced to do something against their will. This phrase is usually used as an excuse for someone’s bad behavior.
The origins of this phrase are actually quite interesting. It is believed to have originated in the medieval era, when people believed that evil spirits could possess people’s bodies and make them do things against their will. This belief was called “demonic possession” and it was a very real fear for many people at that time.
Today, of course, we know that demonic possession is not real. But the phrase “the devil made me do it” is still used to describe people who have done something bad or evil. In conclusion, it is a way of saying that the person was not in control of their actions and that they were forced to do something against their will.
Final Thoughts
So, next time you hear someone say “the devil made me do it,” you can be sure that they are not actually being literal. But if you want to dig a little deeper, the phrase does have an interesting history.
Do you know of any other common phrases that have interesting origins? Share them with us in the comments!