A dog in the manger

usgb
phrase

Someone who prevents others from using something they themselves have no need for.

Don't be a dog in the manger, you're not going to the party, so let your brother use your new jacket.
Visual representation of "a dog in the manger" - Someone who prevents others from using something they themselves have no need for.

Often appears as...

  • be a dog in the manger
  • act like a dog in the manger

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a dog in the manger"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Usage Context

Used for criticizing someone's selfishness, especially when they deny others something they can't use.

Illustration for Usage Context
He's keeping all these books just to spite me, such a dog in the manger.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's a metaphor; no actual dogs or mangers involved, focuses on selfish human behavior.

Illustration for Not Literal
She won't let anyone else book the meeting room, a real dog in the manger.
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Negative Tone

Conveys a negative judgment, implying pettiness or unnecessary possessiveness.

Illustration for Negative Tone
He's a dog in the manger, hoarding supplies he never uses.
Visual representation of the word "A dog in the manger"

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