Cut the ground from under somebody’s feet

usgb
phrase

To suddenly make someone's position or situation much less secure by doing something unexpected.

When they launched their own version of our product, they cut the ground from under our feet.
Visual representation of "cut the ground from under somebody’s feet" - To suddenly make someone's position or situation much less secure by doing something unexpected.

Often appears as...

  • being fired cut the ground from under his feet
  • his decision cut the ground from under their feet

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cut the ground from under somebody’s feet"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Betrayal

The phrase often implies a sense of betrayal or disloyalty from someone thought to be an ally.

Illustration for Unexpected Betrayal
Trusting them with our plans, only to have them compete against us, really cut the ground from under our feet.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

It evokes feelings of shock, instability, and loss of support, much like a physical fall.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
After being denied the promotion, it felt like they'd cut the ground from under my feet.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Strategic Maneuver

Can indicate a clever or strategic move by others that puts someone at a disadvantage.

Illustration for Strategic Maneuver
They waited until I had made my argument to reveal the evidence, cutting the ground from under my feet.
Visual representation of the word "Cut the ground from under somebody’s feet"

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