Eat humble pie

usgb
idiom

To admit a mistake or defeat especially in a humble way.

After losing the election, the senator had to eat humble pie in his concession speech.
Visual representation of "eat humble pie" - To admit a mistake or defeat especially in a humble way

Often appears as...

  • having to eat humble pie
  • forced to eat humble pie

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "eat humble pie"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Admission of Error

It signals recognizing one's own mistake or poor judgement, not just experiencing bad outcomes.

Illustration for Admission of Error
I had to eat humble pie after my plan caused the team to fail.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Humility Required

The phrase implies that the speaker feels genuine regret and is being sincere in their contrition.

Illustration for Humility Required
The CEO ate humble pie during the press conference, apologizing for the oversight.
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No Literal Meaning

It is metaphorical and has nothing to do with eating actual pie; 'humble' relates to being humble.

Illustration for No Literal Meaning
After mocking the amateur player, the pro had to eat humble pie when he was defeated.
Visual representation of the word "Eat humble pie"

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