Noun
/prəˈkrʌstiːən bɛd/
The term "Procrustean bed" refers to a situation where individuals or ideas are forced into a standard or model that does not allow for any variation. It is derived from the myth of Procrustes, a figure from Greek mythology who would stretch or chop off the limbs of his guests to make them fit into his bed, thereby enforcing a rigid conformity.
This phrase denotes a rigid, often cruel method of imposing uniformity, typically in a socio-political, educational, or organizational context. It is not often used in everyday conversation but can be found more frequently in written discourse, particularly in criticism or ideological frameworks.
The government’s Procrustean bed policy on education has left no room for creative teaching methods.
Политика правительства по образованию в стиле прокрустова ложа не оставила места для креативных методов обучения.
Many corporations operate under a Procrustean bed of standardized procedures that stifles innovation.
Многие корпорации работают в условиях прокрустова ложа стандартизированных процедур, которые подавляют инновации.
He criticized the Procrustean bed approach of the new regulations that treat all businesses the same, regardless of their size.
Он раскритиковал подход прокрустова ложа новых регуляций, которые относятся ко всем компаниям одинаково, независимо от их размера.
While "Procrustean bed" itself is a specific phrase, it is often used as an analogy in various idiomatic expressions especially in discussions about conformity and standards. Here are a few related idiomatic expressions with their meanings:
"The organization expected its employees to fit into a mold, following orders without question."
Организация ожидала, что ее сотрудники будут соответствовать установленному шаблону, без вопросов выполняя приказы.
"One size fits all"
This phrase implies that a solution or rule applies universally, regardless of individual needs.
"The new policy is a one size fits all approach, ideal for some but unsuitable for others."
Новая политика является подходом "один размер подходит всем", подходящим для одних, но неприемлемым для других.
"Cut from the same cloth"
Used to describe people or things that are very similar, often in a restrictive sense.
The term "Procrustean" was derived from the name "Procrustes," a character from Greek mythology who had a bed that would adjust the size of guests by either stretching them or cutting off their limbs to ensure they fit perfectly. The phrase evolved to describe the idea of forcing conformity in various contexts, particularly in a largely non-figurative way by the late 19th century.
Synonyms: - Rigid - Conformist - Uniform
Antonyms: - Flexible - Adaptive - Individualistic
This comprehensive breakdown of "Procrustean bed" illustrates its complexity and its roots in both language and philosophical critique.