takes one for the team
Suffers for others
To take one for the team is to accept personal sacrifice or discomfort for the benefit of a group.
The phrase comes from sports—a batter hit by a pitch advances to first base, helping the team despite the pain.
It now applies broadly: Someone has to work the holiday shift—I'll take one for the team.
Often used with ironic self-deprecation for minor inconveniences.
- mutual supportAid flowing both directions
- cooperationJoint action toward shared aims
- leadershipAbility to direct others
- stepping upAssuming more responsibility
- generosityReadiness to give freely
sacrifice · selflessness · altruism · martyrdom · unity · unsung hero · above and beyond · compromise · fall guy · camaraderie · solidarity · scapegoat · partnership · synergy · group dynamics · dedication · biting the bullet · patience
takes one for the teamlooks out for number one
Prioritizes personal gain above all
every man for himself · passes the buck · freeloads · self-serving · free rides
takes one for the teamstabs in the back
Treacheries from trusted allies
sells out · rats out · abandons ship · deserts · defects
takes one for the teamchickens out
Abandons plan from fear
runs away · backs down · ducks out · bails · cowers
takes, taken, taking, taker, takers, teamed, teaming, teammate, teamwork