Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pull the rug from under someone's feet
idiom
/pʊl ðə rʌg frəm ˈʌndər ˈsʌmwʌnz fiːt/
Definition
To suddenly remove support or assistance from someone, leaving them in a vulnerable position.
Examples
- Just when I thought I was secure in my job, my boss pulled the rug from under my feet by announcing layoffs.
- Her unexpected decision to move away pulled the rug from under his feet in terms of their relationship.
Meaning
This phrase suggests that a person has unexpectedly lost their stability or security, often due to someone else’s actions.
Synonyms
- take away the ground from beneath
- leave someone high and dry
- sweep someone off their feet
