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UKtreat sb like (a piece of) shit / dirt / trash
/tɹˈiːt ˌɛsbˈiː lˈaɪk ɐ pˈiːs ɒv ɔː ʃˈɪt ɔː dˈɜːt ɔː tɹˈaʃ/
/tɹˈiːt ˌɛsbˈiː lˈaɪk ɐ pˈiːs ʌv ɔːɹ ʃˈɪt ɔːɹ dˈɜːt ɔːɹ tɹˈæʃ/to treat sb like (a piece of) shit / dirt / trash
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "treat someone like dirt" and when to use it?
The idiom "treat someone like dirt" has origins rooted in the concept of soil or earth being associated with lowliness and insignificance. Throughout history, soil or dirt has symbolized something base or inferior, while humans have often been linked to higher status and worth. The idiom metaphorically likens a person to the lowly status of dirt, implying that they are being treated with extreme disrespect or disdain. It is commonly employed in discussions related to interpersonal relationships, workplace dynamics, and personal interactions, emphasizing a complete lack of respect, empathy, or consideration for another person's feelings, dignity, or worth.
Examples
1. I'm not about to sit idle and let you treat me like trash!
2. I have tried to talk to them for six years, and they have ignored me and treated me like a piece of dirt.
3. If you ask me, it was Diana who treated him like trash and put the whole divorce thing in motion in the first place.
4. So why do you want to treat us like dirt because of what happened that time of year?
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