take the rap

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take the rap (third-person singular simple present takes the rap, present participle taking the rap, simple past took the rap, past participle taken the rap)

1. (slang, idiomatic) To be blamed or punished for something, especially for the wrongful actions of another; to willingly allow oneself to be so blamed or punished.

• carry the can
• take the fall

• beat the rap
• bum rap
• take the heat