Leave somebody holding the bag

usgb
phrase

To let someone else take the blame or responsibility, especially unfairly.

When the company was found guilty of tax evasion, the bosses ran away and left the employees holding the bag.
Visual representation of "leave somebody holding the bag" - To let someone else take the blame or responsibility, especially unfairly.

Often appears as...

  • left me holding the bag
  • left him holding the bag

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "leave somebody holding the bag"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unfair Consequence

Used when someone unfairly ends up with the problem that someone else should handle.

Illustration for Unfair Consequence
When the project failed, John disappeared, leaving me holding the bag with the angry clients.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's figurative, meaning nobody is actually left holding a physical bag.

Illustration for Not Literal
The other volunteers quit, leaving me holding the bag with all the planning.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Impact

The phrase can express feelings of betrayal and frustration.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
After supporting her campaign, she left us holding the bag when she switched parties.
Visual representation of the word "Leave somebody holding the bag"

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