take in vain

• Den Namen Gottes oder einer heiligen Person respektlos, ehrfurchtslos oder ohne die gebührende Achtung gebrauchen, oft in leichtfertiger oder gotteslästerlicher Weise.

To use someone's name disrespectfully, irreverently, or without proper respect, often in a casual or blasphemous manner.

1. Use a name disrespectfullyB2formal

   To use someone's name, especially a deity's, in a disrespectful or irreverent manner.

   den Namen missbrauchen

   • He was taught never to take the Lord's name in vain.
   • The phrase 'taking in vain' often refers to religious contexts.
   • She felt it was wrong to take her friend's name in vain during an argument.

2. Use something without proper respectC1formal

   To use a concept, idea, or name in a trivial or disrespectful way.

   Ohne gebührenden Respekt gebrauchen

   • The artist felt his work was taken in vain by the critics.
   • They took the principles of democracy in vain by ignoring them.
   • Don't take my advice in vain; I gave it seriously.