eat somebody alive

Definition & Meaning of "eat somebody alive"

to eat somebody alive

PHRASE

to make someone experience extreme pain or distress

to [eat] {sb} alive definition and meaning

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "eat someone alive" and when to use it?

The phrase "eat someone alive" originated in the English language and has likely evolved naturally over time. It draws upon the figurative use of the verb "eat" to vividly convey the idea of causing someone extreme pain or distress. The expression is often used in informal contexts to describe situations where individuals are subjected to intense pressure, criticism, or competition that can mentally or emotionally overwhelm them.

to easily defeat someone by being more skilled, powerful, or aggressive compared to them

Disapproving

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "eat someone alive" and when to use it?

The idiom "eat someone alive" is believed to have been in use since the early 20th century. The phrase is likely derived from the idea of a predator consuming its prey, which creates a vivid image of being attacked and destroyed. In modern usage, this idiom is often used in sports, politics, or business to describe a situation where one person or team dominates another to the point of humiliation.

to harshly reprimand someone for what they did

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "eat someone alive" and when to use it?

The idiom "eat someone alive" likely originates from the vivid imagery of a predator devouring its prey, emphasizing a figurative consumption of the person through severe criticism or reprimand. It suggests a relentless and harsh attack, as if the individual is being metaphorically torn apart for their actions. In other words, this expression is often used to describe the action of strongly scolding or reprimanding someone for their action or mistake.

Example

When the employee's repeated mistakes jeopardized the project, the manager ate them alive during the team meeting, expressing frustration and disappointment.

The overwhelming stress of financial debt was eating him alive, affecting his overall well-being and happiness.

After discovering the extent of the student's plagiarism, the professor decided to eat them alive in front of the entire class, making it clear that academic dishonesty would not be tolerated.