Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
at someone's expense
idiomatic expression
/æt ˈsʌm.wʌnz ɪkˈspɛns/
Definition
A phrase used to indicate that something is done to the detriment of someone else, often in a way that brings amusement or enjoyment to the person causing the harm.
Examples
- He made fun of her dress, but it was all at her expense.
- They laughed at his mistakes, enjoying the moment at someone’s expense.
- The prank was funny, but it was certainly at his expense.
Meaning
This expression means that the benefit or enjoyment that one person derives comes at a cost to another, implying that the latter suffers or is embarrassed in some way.
Synonyms
- at someone’s cost
- at the expense of
- at the loss of
