Blot your copybook
verb phrase
To make a mistake or behave badly, which ruins your reputation or your relationship with other people.
He blotted his copybook when he was caught stealing in the office.
Often appears as...
- to blot one's copybook
- have your copybook blotted
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To make a mistake or behave badly, which ruins your reputation or your relationship with other people.
He blotted his copybook when he was caught stealing in the office.
Often appears as...
- to blot one's copybook
- have your copybook blotted
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3British Origins
This is a British phrase not commonly used in American English, so it might confuse US speakers.
When I said he blotted his copybook, my American friend had no idea what I meant.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
The phrase is metaphorical and doesn't involve actual ink or books; it's about reputation.
After the scandal, the politician had really blotted his copybook.
Pro Tip 3/3Social Context
Mostly used in social or professional contexts where trust and behavior are important.
She blotted her copybook with the team after lying about the project's progress.
Pro Tip 1/3British Origins
This is a British phrase not commonly used in American English, so it might confuse US speakers.
When I said he blotted his copybook, my American friend had no idea what I meant.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
The phrase is metaphorical and doesn't involve actual ink or books; it's about reputation.
After the scandal, the politician had really blotted his copybook.
Pro Tip 3/3Social Context
Mostly used in social or professional contexts where trust and behavior are important.
She blotted her copybook with the team after lying about the project's progress.
Pro Tip 1/3British Origins
This is a British phrase not commonly used in American English, so it might confuse US speakers.
When I said he blotted his copybook, my American friend had no idea what I meant.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
The phrase is metaphorical and doesn't involve actual ink or books; it's about reputation.
After the scandal, the politician had really blotted his copybook.
Pro Tip 3/3Social Context
Mostly used in social or professional contexts where trust and behavior are important.
She blotted her copybook with the team after lying about the project's progress.
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