Shoot yourself in the foot
phrase
To harm yourself unintentionally while trying to do something.
By arguing with your teammate in front of the coach, you're shooting yourself in the foot.

Often appears as...
- don't shoot yourself in the foot
- he shot himself in the foot
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
In computer programming, to introduce an error or problem in your own code.
By not thoroughly testing your code before deployment, you're shooting yourself in the foot.

Often appears as...
- don't shoot yourself in the foot
- he shot himself in the foot in his code
Usage tips
Technical
phrase
To harm yourself unintentionally while trying to do something.
By arguing with your teammate in front of the coach, you're shooting yourself in the foot.

Often appears as...
- don't shoot yourself in the foot
- he shot himself in the foot
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
In computer programming, to introduce an error or problem in your own code.
By not thoroughly testing your code before deployment, you're shooting yourself in the foot.

Often appears as...
- don't shoot yourself in the foot
- he shot himself in the foot in his code
Usage tips
Technical
Definition 1 of 2

Self-Harm Mistake
Used when someone has made a mistake that directly harms their own interest or objectives.

Neglecting to proofread your application can shoot you in the foot.
Unintended Outcome
Emphasizes the unintentional aspect of the action that causes harm or setback.

Calling in sick too often might shoot yourself in the foot when looking for a promotion.
Avoidable Situation
Suggests that the negative situation could have been avoided with foresight or careful action.

Talking back to the manager is a surefire way to shoot yourself in the foot.
Self-Harm Mistake
Used when someone has made a mistake that directly harms their own interest or objectives.

Neglecting to proofread your application can shoot you in the foot.
Unintended Outcome
Emphasizes the unintentional aspect of the action that causes harm or setback.

Calling in sick too often might shoot yourself in the foot when looking for a promotion.
Avoidable Situation
Suggests that the negative situation could have been avoided with foresight or careful action.

Talking back to the manager is a surefire way to shoot yourself in the foot.
Self-Harm Mistake
Used when someone has made a mistake that directly harms their own interest or objectives.

Neglecting to proofread your application can shoot you in the foot.
Unintended Outcome
Emphasizes the unintentional aspect of the action that causes harm or setback.

Calling in sick too often might shoot yourself in the foot when looking for a promotion.
Avoidable Situation
Suggests that the negative situation could have been avoided with foresight or careful action.

Talking back to the manager is a surefire way to shoot yourself in the foot.
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