Bite the hand that feeds you

usgb
phrase

To act badly towards the person who is helping or has helped you.

She was always rude to her tutor, it's like she was biting the hand that feeds her.
Visual representation of "bite the hand that feeds you" - To act badly towards the person who is helping or has helped you.

Often appears as...

  • don't bite the hand that feeds you
  • biting the hand that feeds you

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "bite the hand that feeds you"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Use With Caution

This phrase often has a negative connotation, implying ingratitude or disloyalty.

Illustration for Use With Caution
He criticized his mentor publicly, truly biting the hand that feeds him.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Meaning

Understand that it's a metaphor about damaging relationships with a benefactor.

Illustration for Metaphorical Meaning
By leaking company secrets, she's biting the hand that feeds her.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Non-Literal

Remember, 'biting' and 'feeding' are not physical here but represent actions and support.

Illustration for Non-Literal
Talking back to his supporters, he didn't realize he was biting the hand that feeds him.
Visual representation of the word "Bite the hand that feeds you"

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