Be out on your ear

usgb
phrase

To be forcibly removed or fired from a position or place because of some wrong action.

Johnson was out on his ear after the second accounting scandal of the company.
Visual representation of "be out on your ear" - To be forcibly removed or fired from a position or place because of some wrong action.

Often appears as...

  • out on his ear
  • out on her ear

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be out on your ear"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase usually implies that the person did something bad or unprofessional to deserve being fired.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
After the fiasco, she was out on her ear without a second chance.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Sudden Removal

It suggests that the removal was quick and without hesitation, often unexpectedly for the person involved.

Illustration for Sudden Removal
Once the fraud was uncovered, he was out on his ear by lunchtime.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Context

It's an informal expression, so it's best used in casual conversation, not in formal writing or situations.

Illustration for Informal Context
Mess up like that again, and you'll be out on your ear, I guarantee it.
Visual representation of the word "Be out on your ear"

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