The idiom "devil's advocate" is used to describe a person who takes a position or argues a point of view that is opposite to the majority or the popular opinion. This person does not necessarily believe in the argument they are making, but they present it anyway to challenge the prevailing belief or opinion.
The term "devil's advocate" comes from the Catholic Church, where a person was appointed to argue against the canonization of a saint. This person was called the "devil's advocate" because they were tasked with finding flaws and weaknesses in the case for sainthood.
In everyday conversation, "devil's advocate" is used to describe someone who is playing the role of a skeptic or a contrarian. For example, if a group of friends are discussing a plan to start a business, one person might play devil's advocate by pointing out all the potential risks and challenges they might face.
It's important to note that playing devil's advocate is not the same as being argumentative or disagreeable. The goal is not to cause conflict, but rather to encourage critical thinking and consider alternative perspectives.
• As a devil's advocate, I can see why some people might think that social media is ruining our ability to communicate face-to-face.
• Playing devil's advocate, I could argue that eating junk food every once in a while isn't so bad for you.
• I don't want to be a devil's advocate, but maybe we should check the weather before we go to the park today.
• While I don't necessarily agree, I can play devil's advocate and argue that the rise of technology has the potential to make us more efficient and connected than ever before.
• I'm not saying I agree, but I can play devil's advocate and understand why some people might think that raising the minimum wage would hurt small businesses.
• As a devil's advocate, I can see why some people might argue that the death penalty is a necessary form of justice.