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kick in the teeth
01
something that proves to be very shocking and disappointing to one, in a way that ruins one's good mood
Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "kick in the teeth" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the phrase "kick in the teeth" is unclear, but it likely emerged in the English language during the 20th century. The phrase draws upon the literal act of receiving a forceful kick to the teeth, which is a painful and damaging experience. This expression can be used in personal narratives, conversations, literature, or everyday language to depict instances where individuals feel deeply hurt, undermined, or defeated by an unexpected turn of events or the actions of others.
Example
Being overlooked for the scholarship she had worked so hard to earn felt like a kick in the teeth, leaving her questioning her abilities and future prospects.
After tirelessly working on the project for months, receiving a negative and harsh critique from her supervisor felt like a kick in the teeth.
Receiving a rejection letter from her dream college was a crushing kick in the teeth, dashing her hopes and forcing her to reconsider her plans.
Discovering that his partner had been cheating on him for months was a devastating kick in the teeth that shattered his trust and left him heartbroken.
Losing his job right before the holidays was a real kick in the teeth, leaving him feeling defeated and uncertain about the future.
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