Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
stick-the-knife-in
idiom
/ˈstɪk ðə naɪf ɪn/
Definition
To betray someone or to hurt someone after they have been vulnerable or trusting.
Examples
- After all the support she gave him, it felt like he was sticking the knife in when he shared her secrets.
- When he revealed her mistakes in front of everyone, it was just him sticking the knife in for no reason.
Meaning
This phrase refers to the action of causing emotional pain or distress to someone who may already be struggling or exposed in some way. It often implies a sense of deceit or treachery, as the person who ‘sticks the knife in’ takes advantage of a trusting situation.
Synonyms
- betray
- backstab
- double-cross
- deceive
