throw somebody under the bus
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Definition & Meaning of "throw somebody under the bus"

to throw somebody under the bus
01

to gain advantage at the cost of someone else's suffering or loss

to [throw] {sb} under the bus definition and meaning
DisapprovingDisapproving
IdiomIdiom
InformalInformal

What is the origin of the idiom "throw someone under the bus" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "throw someone under the bus" is not definitively known, but it likely stems from the literal idea of someone being pushed or thrown beneath a bus, resulting in harm or betrayal. This phrase is used when someone is willing to sacrifice or betray another person to protect themselves or achieve their own goals. It often implies a lack of loyalty or a willingness to harm someone else for personal gain. This can happen in various contexts, including the workplace, relationships, or politics.

example
Example
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She threw her colleague under the bus by blaming him for the project's failure when it was a team effort.
In a desperate attempt to avoid punishment, the suspect tried to throw his accomplice under the bus.
He did n't hesitate to throw his closest friends under the bus when he faced legal trouble.
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