Break from the Grind April 9, 2018
TRIVIAL PURSUITS: From Where Did the Phrase “For Pete’s Sake” Come?
Many of us use the phrase “for Pete’s sake” when expressing frustration.
Reported by PS
From where did the phrase “for Pete’s sake” come?
“For Pete’s sake” originated as a substitute for “for Christ’s (or God’s) sake,” and other similar expressions—as using a shortened form of the disciple St. Peter’s name instead was considered less offensive.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “for Pete’s sake” came into use more than a century ago and prompted similar sayings such as “for the love of Pete” in 1906 and “in the name of Pete” in 1942.
« Court Finds Company Owners Not Responsible for Multiemployer Plan Withdrawal Liability