Be somebody’s pigeon

usgb
idiom

To be someone's responsibility or problem.

Fixing this computer is not my pigeon; it's Peter's pigeon because he is part of the IT team.
Visual representation of "be somebody’s pigeon" - To be someone's responsibility or problem

Often appears as...

  • not my pigeon
  • your pigeon

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be somebody’s pigeon"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Use

It's casual language; use it with friends, not in formal settings like job interviews.

Illustration for Informal Use
I can't help with the move - that's Jim's pigeon.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Avoid Blaming

It's to state responsibility, not to blame someone harshly for a problem.

Illustration for Avoid Blaming
I can't cover her shift. That's her pigeon, not mine.
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Clarifying Tasks

Use it to clarify who should handle a task without ambiguity or confusion.

Illustration for Clarifying Tasks
Organizing the meeting agenda is definitely Sarah's pigeon.
Visual representation of the word "Be somebody’s pigeon"

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