Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cut-someone-off-at-the-knees

idiom

/kʌt ˈsʌmwʌn ɒf æt ðə niːz/

Definition

To remove someone’s support or resources suddenly, often leading to their failure.

Examples

When the company restructured, they cut him off at the knees, leaving him without a job or prospects.
The sudden withdrawal of funding cut the project off at the knees, forcing it to shut down.
The harsh critique from her mentor cut her off at the knees just before the presentation.

Meaning

This phrase indicates an action that undermines someone’s ability to progress or succeed, metaphorically cutting off their legs, which are essential for standing or moving forward.