Dictionary
Words, grammatical forms and meanings linked to the ontology.
be a devil en · INTJ
Meanings
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(UK, informal) Used to encourage someone to do something when they are unsure whether they should.
Just after a woman announcer had read the weather forecast before the BBC's 10 o'clock radio news last night a man was heard to say: “Go on. Be a devil. Give us a bit." The BBC was inundated with calls and letters wishing the happy couple every happiness in their future together.
1967, Encounter - Volume 29, page 95:I used to say to him, “Wouldn't you care for a sandwich just today, Mr Main? Come on, be a devil. Strike new ground. '
1995, Freda Bream, Sealed and Despatched, page 107:You don't need to lose any, but try it. Be a devil.
1987, Susan Musgrave, The Dancing Chicken: A Novel, page 48: