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Getting off scot free?

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joannie10 | 14:31 Thu 10th Jan 2008 | Phrases & Sayings
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does anyone know where this saying came from - Getting off scot free - when someone gets away with something basically.
thanks
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Avatar Image Tichfield
A "scot" was an old tax. So if you got away without paying it you "Got off scot free".
14:34 Thu 10th Jan 2008
Avatar Image Tichfield
Just to add, it has nothing to do with Scotland or being Scottish.
14:36 Thu 10th Jan 2008
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I did wonder if it was a Scottish thing or even someone by the name of Scott. Thanks for your reply.
15:02 Thu 10th Jan 2008
Avatar Image branchinghen
It is to do with being scottish because we are all tinkers!!!
17:55 Thu 10th Jan 2008
Avatar Image DebsyDoo
It goes back to when the English were ruling the Irish & the King of England would offer royal pardons to Scottish prisoners if they would act as mercanaries. So they got off "Scot free" because they did not have to serve their time in Gaol.
02:14 Sat 12th Jan 2008

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