fifth (redirected from takes the fifth)

fifth wheel

Fig. an unwelcome or extra person. I don't like living with my son and daughter-in-law. I feel like a fifth wheel. Bill always begs to come on camping trips with us, but really, he's a fifth wheel.

See also: wheel

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a fifth/third wheel  (American)

someone who is in a situation where they are not really needed or are ignored by other people I don't have a role in the office any more - I feel like a fifth wheel.

See also: wheel

I take/plead the Fifth (Amendment)  (American humorous)

something that you say in order to tell someone you are not going to answer a question

Usage notes: The Fifth Amendment is the part of American law that says someone does not have to answer questions about themselves in a law court.

(sometimes + on ) 'So who do you like best, Jenny or Kim?' 'Sorry, I take the Fifth on that.'

See a fifth wheel

See also: take

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take the fifth (amendment) also plead the fifth (amendment)

to avoid answering a question, esp. that could cause embarrassment I plead the fifth - I don't know where your girlfriend went!

Etymology: based on the Fifth Amendment of the US Bill of Rights which says you do not have to answer questions about yourself in a court if your answers could show you are involved in a criminal activity

See also: take