Chivo expiatorio vs. cabeza de turco
The Spanish terms 'chivo expiatorio' and 'cabeza de turco' both translate into English as 'scapegoat' or 'fall guy', but they have slightly different connotations in use. These two phrases are idiomatic expressions with unique roots in Spanish history and culture.
Chivo expiatorio
Derived from a biblical reference, this term literally translates to 'expiatory goat'. In usage, it refers to a person who is blamed and punished for the mistakes or sins of others.
Juan siempre es el chivo expiatorio cuando las cosas salen mal en el trabajo.
(Juan is always the scapegoat when things go wrong at work.)
El político usó a su oponente como chivo expiatorio para desviar la atención de sus propios errores.
(The politician used his opponent as a scapegoat to divert attention from his own mistakes.)
Cabeza de turco
'Cabeza de turco' is an expression that originates from historical tensions between Europeans and Turks. It likewise means a person who takes the blame or responsibility for others' actions.
El equipo de fútbol usó al árbitro como cabeza de turco para justificar la derrota.
(The football team used the referee as a scapegoat to justify their defeat.)
A veces, el gobierno utiliza los medios de comunicación como cabeza de turco para sus problemas.
(Sometimes, the government uses the media as a scapegoat for its problems.)
Summary
'Chivo expiatorio' and 'cabeza de turco' are both Spanish idioms meaning 'scapegoat'. 'Chivo expiatorio', with religious origins, pertains more towards someone who is blamed and punished for others' sins. Conversely, 'cabeza de turco', with historical roots in European-Turkish conflicts, leans more towards someone taking blame or responsibility for others' misdeeds.