The Others take you
/the UH-therz TAYK yoo/ interjection/curse
≈ “Go to Hell / Damn you”
A curse invoking the Others (White Walkers) — the ancient ice demons of Westerosi legend. Equivalent to 'the Devil take you' but using the world's own mythology.
“The Others take your mild snows and bury you in them.”— Robert Baratheon, various
Etymology
The Others are the great evil of Westerosi mythology — ice creatures from the Long Night. Invoking them is like cursing someone with the worst supernatural fate imaginable.
Usage History
Used throughout the ASOIAF series. Takes on dramatic irony as the story progresses and the Others become a genuine existential threat.
Taboo Trajectory
Fascinating trajectory — starts as a casual oath referencing mythology, then becomes genuinely terrifying as the myth proves real. Like casually saying 'the Devil take you' and then meeting the actual Devil.
Semantic Drift Timeline
In early books/seasons, used casually as the Others are considered legend. Gains terrifying weight as the White Walkers are confirmed real.
Regional Notes
Used across the Seven Kingdoms. More common in the North where legends of the Others persist. Southerners use it but don't believe in the Others.