What is an idiom, phrase or expression for situation such as “throw a pigeon among cats”Are “Fish in a barrel” and “Sitting ducks” similar?Differences among expression and idiom, as well as colloquial and vernacularExpression for a situation where most prominent stakeholders give upIdiom/expression for “responsible for what happened.”Is there a neat expression for this situation?Any idiom/phrase/expression to describe this attitude?More formal phrase for “throw someone off”Expression or idiom for overacting when assuming a blamePhrase or expression to describe intentional upward discrimination when the favorable situation comes along
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What is an idiom, phrase or expression for situation such as “throw a pigeon among cats”
Are “Fish in a barrel” and “Sitting ducks” similar?Differences among expression and idiom, as well as colloquial and vernacularExpression for a situation where most prominent stakeholders give upIdiom/expression for “responsible for what happened.”Is there a neat expression for this situation?Any idiom/phrase/expression to describe this attitude?More formal phrase for “throw someone off”Expression or idiom for overacting when assuming a blamePhrase or expression to describe intentional upward discrimination when the favorable situation comes along
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Normally there is a idiom "throw a cat among pigeons" but what is being inquired here is "throwing a pigeon among cats" where cats are predator and pigeon is the prey and pigeon is trapped between the predator cats who are out to get at the drop of a hat.
Typically, an example of this would be a employee (the pigeon) working for more than 1 tyrant boss (predator) ideally for more than 4-5 toxic tyrant bosses (predators) helicoptering you, ripping you off of your negligible mistake, etc..
PS: Basically the boss here can be empty suit freeloaders
expressions phrase-requests idioms
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
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show 5 more comments
Normally there is a idiom "throw a cat among pigeons" but what is being inquired here is "throwing a pigeon among cats" where cats are predator and pigeon is the prey and pigeon is trapped between the predator cats who are out to get at the drop of a hat.
Typically, an example of this would be a employee (the pigeon) working for more than 1 tyrant boss (predator) ideally for more than 4-5 toxic tyrant bosses (predators) helicoptering you, ripping you off of your negligible mistake, etc..
PS: Basically the boss here can be empty suit freeloaders
expressions phrase-requests idioms
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
1
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
3
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
1
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
1
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48
|
show 5 more comments
Normally there is a idiom "throw a cat among pigeons" but what is being inquired here is "throwing a pigeon among cats" where cats are predator and pigeon is the prey and pigeon is trapped between the predator cats who are out to get at the drop of a hat.
Typically, an example of this would be a employee (the pigeon) working for more than 1 tyrant boss (predator) ideally for more than 4-5 toxic tyrant bosses (predators) helicoptering you, ripping you off of your negligible mistake, etc..
PS: Basically the boss here can be empty suit freeloaders
expressions phrase-requests idioms
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
Normally there is a idiom "throw a cat among pigeons" but what is being inquired here is "throwing a pigeon among cats" where cats are predator and pigeon is the prey and pigeon is trapped between the predator cats who are out to get at the drop of a hat.
Typically, an example of this would be a employee (the pigeon) working for more than 1 tyrant boss (predator) ideally for more than 4-5 toxic tyrant bosses (predators) helicoptering you, ripping you off of your negligible mistake, etc..
PS: Basically the boss here can be empty suit freeloaders
expressions phrase-requests idioms
expressions phrase-requests idioms
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
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asked Oct 13 at 18:22
AMNAMN
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1,3602 gold badges11 silver badges32 bronze badges
sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
1
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
3
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
1
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
1
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48
|
show 5 more comments
sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
1
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
3
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
1
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
1
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48
sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
1
1
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
3
3
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
1
1
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
1
1
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48
|
show 5 more comments
8 Answers
8
active
oldest
votes
If someone is sacrificing the employee in order to satisfy the other tyrant bosses, then perhaps
Throw someone to the wolves
Fig. to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. (Fig. on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
The Free Dictionary
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
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Probably:
Throw to the lions:
Figuratively, to be thrown to the lions is to be placed in a difficult situation for which one is completely unprepared: “To put that new teacher in front of those unruly students is to throw her to the lions.”
Origin:
During Roman persecutions Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.
(Dictionary.com)
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
|
show 7 more comments
The more modern version of this sentiment is
to throw someone under the bus.
As The Free Dictionary notes, it means
- To exploit someone's trust for one's own purpose, gain, or agenda; to harm someone through deceit or treachery.
Senator Davis was supposed to be working with me to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of gun control, but, instead, she threw me under the bus to get a boost in the polls with her constituency.
The investment company threw its clients under the bus when it chose to redirect their hard earned money into various Ponzi schemes that benefited only a few board members at the top.
- To avoid blame, trouble, or criticism by allowing someone else to take responsibility.
Tommy was caught with the marijuana in his backpack, but he threw me under the bus and said it belonged to me.
Our manager never hesitates to throw an underling under the bus when something goes wrong in the office.
That last example seems like it would go very well with your description.
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
add a comment
|
If you wish to escape the same idiomatic throwing a prey to a predator:
Walking (or Forced to walk) through a minefield.
Where any misstep would obviously result in your death (scolding, criticism, demotion, etc).
Sally's new project was like walking through a minefield. Everywhere she turned, someone was waiting to revel in her mistakes.
This might not be the exact situation you're referring to, but frequently in these situations:
You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Meaning that you're in a dilemma that cannot be solved easily. Whatever you do will displease one person while pleasing the other.
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
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2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
add a comment
|
There is also Throwing firecrackers
This can be combined with various settings
Throwing firecrackers in church
Throwing firecrackers off an overpass
Throwing firecrackers in the toilet
etc.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
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2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
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If predators (toxic bosses, etc.) are waiting to swoop in, you could say that the vultures are circling:
If the vultures are circling, then something is in danger and its
enemies are getting ready for the kill.
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
add a comment
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As a (wryly or darkly) humorous description of the situation, a pigeon among the cats would work just fine, and would be understood as an inversion of the common phrase:
Man, working for those guys was the worst job I ever had. You could
say they really set a pigeon among the cats when they placed me there!
A web search shows that A Pigeon among the Cats has been used as the title of a crime novel and a volume of poetry.
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
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The sharks are circling
If the sharks are circling, then something is in danger and its enemies are getting ready for the kill.
UsingEnglish.com
This fits very well for the situation of having multiple bosses waiting to tear you apart the moment they see an opportunity to strike.
(Unlike vultures circling, which means waiting for something to die / fail on its own so carrion eaters can feast on the corpse. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess property from a company struggling to keep up with payments, and people waiting to rehire any valuable employees. Vultures circling as an idiom has no implication of predators surrounding the thing that's in trouble.)
This doesn't fit the sense of being placed into this situation, though. Throwing someone to the wolves is a better fit for that, as @rajah9's answer points out.
But once in this situation, you might say "The situation at work feels like sharks are circling". (Although that sounds kind of clumsy and isn't the best example of usage. edits welcome with a better example.)
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
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8 Answers
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8 Answers
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If someone is sacrificing the employee in order to satisfy the other tyrant bosses, then perhaps
Throw someone to the wolves
Fig. to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. (Fig. on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
The Free Dictionary
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
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If someone is sacrificing the employee in order to satisfy the other tyrant bosses, then perhaps
Throw someone to the wolves
Fig. to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. (Fig. on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
The Free Dictionary
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
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add a comment
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If someone is sacrificing the employee in order to satisfy the other tyrant bosses, then perhaps
Throw someone to the wolves
Fig. to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. (Fig. on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
The Free Dictionary
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
11.9k2 gold badges24 silver badges49 bronze badges
If someone is sacrificing the employee in order to satisfy the other tyrant bosses, then perhaps
Throw someone to the wolves
Fig. to sacrifice someone to save the rest; to abandon someone to harm. (Fig. on the image of giving one person to the wolves to eat so the rest can get away.)
The Free Dictionary
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
11.9k2 gold badges24 silver badges49 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
11.9k2 gold badges24 silver badges49 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
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answered Oct 14 at 0:54
rajah9rajah9
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Probably:
Throw to the lions:
Figuratively, to be thrown to the lions is to be placed in a difficult situation for which one is completely unprepared: “To put that new teacher in front of those unruly students is to throw her to the lions.”
Origin:
During Roman persecutions Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.
(Dictionary.com)
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
|
show 7 more comments
Probably:
Throw to the lions:
Figuratively, to be thrown to the lions is to be placed in a difficult situation for which one is completely unprepared: “To put that new teacher in front of those unruly students is to throw her to the lions.”
Origin:
During Roman persecutions Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.
(Dictionary.com)
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
|
show 7 more comments
Probably:
Throw to the lions:
Figuratively, to be thrown to the lions is to be placed in a difficult situation for which one is completely unprepared: “To put that new teacher in front of those unruly students is to throw her to the lions.”
Origin:
During Roman persecutions Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.
(Dictionary.com)
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
Probably:
Throw to the lions:
Figuratively, to be thrown to the lions is to be placed in a difficult situation for which one is completely unprepared: “To put that new teacher in front of those unruly students is to throw her to the lions.”
Origin:
During Roman persecutions Christians were thrown to the lions in the Colosseum.
(Dictionary.com)
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
edited Oct 14 at 16:18
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
answered Oct 13 at 18:34
user067531user067531
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
33.3k14 gold badges92 silver badges196 bronze badges
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
|
show 7 more comments
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
4
4
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
@KalleMP - not really, the origin is different and much less entertaining. See the link in my answer.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 10:38
4
4
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
Sorry, I am misunderstanding something. Throwing the disbelievers to be eaten by lions on a circus day was intended to be entertainment. Your link does not offer any other origin or I did not find it.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 11:17
4
4
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
@KalleMP The saying is much older than the Romans. See en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_in_the_lions%27_den (or read the original Bible story, the Book of Daniel chapter 6).
– alephzero
Oct 14 at 11:38
4
4
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
@alephzero +1 That certainly pre-dates Christian persecution by the Romans. However used as a expression Thrown into the lions den might describe trial then deliverance by personal fortitude while Thrown to the lions might mean ruin while an object of entertainment. I think they could be classified with two different meanings, maybe, perhaps. Though the Daniel event was likely also intended to be entertaining to his detractors.
– KalleMP
Oct 14 at 13:12
6
6
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
@alephzero - though it was considered a form of “entertainment” the meaning has changed with time. Nowadays is you through someone to the lions it is not for fun.
– user067531
Oct 14 at 13:15
|
show 7 more comments
The more modern version of this sentiment is
to throw someone under the bus.
As The Free Dictionary notes, it means
- To exploit someone's trust for one's own purpose, gain, or agenda; to harm someone through deceit or treachery.
Senator Davis was supposed to be working with me to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of gun control, but, instead, she threw me under the bus to get a boost in the polls with her constituency.
The investment company threw its clients under the bus when it chose to redirect their hard earned money into various Ponzi schemes that benefited only a few board members at the top.
- To avoid blame, trouble, or criticism by allowing someone else to take responsibility.
Tommy was caught with the marijuana in his backpack, but he threw me under the bus and said it belonged to me.
Our manager never hesitates to throw an underling under the bus when something goes wrong in the office.
That last example seems like it would go very well with your description.
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
add a comment
|
The more modern version of this sentiment is
to throw someone under the bus.
As The Free Dictionary notes, it means
- To exploit someone's trust for one's own purpose, gain, or agenda; to harm someone through deceit or treachery.
Senator Davis was supposed to be working with me to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of gun control, but, instead, she threw me under the bus to get a boost in the polls with her constituency.
The investment company threw its clients under the bus when it chose to redirect their hard earned money into various Ponzi schemes that benefited only a few board members at the top.
- To avoid blame, trouble, or criticism by allowing someone else to take responsibility.
Tommy was caught with the marijuana in his backpack, but he threw me under the bus and said it belonged to me.
Our manager never hesitates to throw an underling under the bus when something goes wrong in the office.
That last example seems like it would go very well with your description.
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
add a comment
|
The more modern version of this sentiment is
to throw someone under the bus.
As The Free Dictionary notes, it means
- To exploit someone's trust for one's own purpose, gain, or agenda; to harm someone through deceit or treachery.
Senator Davis was supposed to be working with me to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of gun control, but, instead, she threw me under the bus to get a boost in the polls with her constituency.
The investment company threw its clients under the bus when it chose to redirect their hard earned money into various Ponzi schemes that benefited only a few board members at the top.
- To avoid blame, trouble, or criticism by allowing someone else to take responsibility.
Tommy was caught with the marijuana in his backpack, but he threw me under the bus and said it belonged to me.
Our manager never hesitates to throw an underling under the bus when something goes wrong in the office.
That last example seems like it would go very well with your description.
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
The more modern version of this sentiment is
to throw someone under the bus.
As The Free Dictionary notes, it means
- To exploit someone's trust for one's own purpose, gain, or agenda; to harm someone through deceit or treachery.
Senator Davis was supposed to be working with me to bridge the gap between Democrats and Republicans on the issue of gun control, but, instead, she threw me under the bus to get a boost in the polls with her constituency.
The investment company threw its clients under the bus when it chose to redirect their hard earned money into various Ponzi schemes that benefited only a few board members at the top.
- To avoid blame, trouble, or criticism by allowing someone else to take responsibility.
Tommy was caught with the marijuana in his backpack, but he threw me under the bus and said it belonged to me.
Our manager never hesitates to throw an underling under the bus when something goes wrong in the office.
That last example seems like it would go very well with your description.
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 1:05
RobustoRobusto
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
133k32 gold badges321 silver badges537 bronze badges
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
add a comment
|
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
6
6
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
I think the idiom OP is after is to do with multiple problems, not a single one. And yes, I do know buses sometimes come in threes.
– Pureferret
Oct 14 at 10:55
2
2
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
In my experience, as well as in the definitions quoted above, "to throw someone under the bus" does not include any significant connotation of putting someone in the (figurative) situation of prey among predators, which was the OP's question.
– LarsH
Oct 15 at 15:51
1
1
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
@LarsH: agreed. In the OP's hypothetical case, one of those bosses likely will throw you under the bus after a minor mistake (or even if you're innocent), if there is any blame they can shift your way. But that's a specific-incident thing, not the general situation.
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:29
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
That is an American idiom, not really used in British English. Not saying it's wrong: just something to be aware of if the OP has a particular audience.
– Chris Melville
2 days ago
add a comment
|
If you wish to escape the same idiomatic throwing a prey to a predator:
Walking (or Forced to walk) through a minefield.
Where any misstep would obviously result in your death (scolding, criticism, demotion, etc).
Sally's new project was like walking through a minefield. Everywhere she turned, someone was waiting to revel in her mistakes.
This might not be the exact situation you're referring to, but frequently in these situations:
You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Meaning that you're in a dilemma that cannot be solved easily. Whatever you do will displease one person while pleasing the other.
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
add a comment
|
If you wish to escape the same idiomatic throwing a prey to a predator:
Walking (or Forced to walk) through a minefield.
Where any misstep would obviously result in your death (scolding, criticism, demotion, etc).
Sally's new project was like walking through a minefield. Everywhere she turned, someone was waiting to revel in her mistakes.
This might not be the exact situation you're referring to, but frequently in these situations:
You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Meaning that you're in a dilemma that cannot be solved easily. Whatever you do will displease one person while pleasing the other.
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
add a comment
|
If you wish to escape the same idiomatic throwing a prey to a predator:
Walking (or Forced to walk) through a minefield.
Where any misstep would obviously result in your death (scolding, criticism, demotion, etc).
Sally's new project was like walking through a minefield. Everywhere she turned, someone was waiting to revel in her mistakes.
This might not be the exact situation you're referring to, but frequently in these situations:
You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Meaning that you're in a dilemma that cannot be solved easily. Whatever you do will displease one person while pleasing the other.
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
If you wish to escape the same idiomatic throwing a prey to a predator:
Walking (or Forced to walk) through a minefield.
Where any misstep would obviously result in your death (scolding, criticism, demotion, etc).
Sally's new project was like walking through a minefield. Everywhere she turned, someone was waiting to revel in her mistakes.
This might not be the exact situation you're referring to, but frequently in these situations:
You're damned if you do and damned if you don't.
Meaning that you're in a dilemma that cannot be solved easily. Whatever you do will displease one person while pleasing the other.
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
answered Oct 14 at 15:33
David MDavid M
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
18.7k8 gold badges59 silver badges111 bronze badges
2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
add a comment
|
2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
2
2
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
Walk a minefield, good one. There's also "run the gauntlet:"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:50
add a comment
|
There is also Throwing firecrackers
This can be combined with various settings
Throwing firecrackers in church
Throwing firecrackers off an overpass
Throwing firecrackers in the toilet
etc.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
add a comment
|
There is also Throwing firecrackers
This can be combined with various settings
Throwing firecrackers in church
Throwing firecrackers off an overpass
Throwing firecrackers in the toilet
etc.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
add a comment
|
There is also Throwing firecrackers
This can be combined with various settings
Throwing firecrackers in church
Throwing firecrackers off an overpass
Throwing firecrackers in the toilet
etc.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
There is also Throwing firecrackers
This can be combined with various settings
Throwing firecrackers in church
Throwing firecrackers off an overpass
Throwing firecrackers in the toilet
etc.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
answered Oct 15 at 13:25
Sami LoreptidoSami Loreptido
91 bronze badge
91 bronze badge
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
New contributor
Sami Loreptido is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
Check out our Code of Conduct.
2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
add a comment
|
2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
2
2
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
I'm not sure how throwing firecrackers corresponds to the concept of throwing a pigeon among cats.
– KillingTime
Oct 15 at 13:35
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
'Throwing firecrackers in the toilet'? That's a damp squib, surely. Not an answer to the question.
– Tim
2 days ago
add a comment
|
If predators (toxic bosses, etc.) are waiting to swoop in, you could say that the vultures are circling:
If the vultures are circling, then something is in danger and its
enemies are getting ready for the kill.
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
add a comment
|
If predators (toxic bosses, etc.) are waiting to swoop in, you could say that the vultures are circling:
If the vultures are circling, then something is in danger and its
enemies are getting ready for the kill.
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
add a comment
|
If predators (toxic bosses, etc.) are waiting to swoop in, you could say that the vultures are circling:
If the vultures are circling, then something is in danger and its
enemies are getting ready for the kill.
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
If predators (toxic bosses, etc.) are waiting to swoop in, you could say that the vultures are circling:
If the vultures are circling, then something is in danger and its
enemies are getting ready for the kill.
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
answered Oct 15 at 18:32
RajRaj
1375 bronze badges
1375 bronze badges
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
add a comment
|
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
1
1
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
No, vultures are carrion eaters. If vultures are circling, they're waiting for a sick animal to die on its own, then eat the corpse. As an English idiom, the metaphor is definitely not about enemies, but about something or someone that's going to fail on their own. (The people / companies circling tend to be ones that might pick up some of the pieces. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess a car and/or property if a person or company is falling behind on payments)
– Peter Cordes
Oct 15 at 22:24
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - vultures are quite happy to eat any carrion, regardless of how it met its end. Anything left after the killer has finished eating is fair game, so to speak. And probably tastier and more wholesome than eating a possibly diseased animal.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@Tim: sure, so vultures might circle an animal being stalked by predators. But I think most desert predators are ambush predators (I think) so vultures wouldn't know ahead of time and be circling, right? Not like hyenas running down their prey until it's exhausted and can't stay ahead. But that's biology; as an English idiom my understanding of the meaning has no implication of that. Sharks circling is I think an idiom I've heard, and that has a very strong connotation of predators surrounding and waiting for a moment to attack. (Thanks for making me think of it; perfect idiom here)
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@PeterCordes - actually, that's a much better idiom., considering the question. Vultures don't kill, sharks do. So this answer's not too good.
– Tim
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
@Tim: posted it as an answer
– Peter Cordes
2 days ago
add a comment
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As a (wryly or darkly) humorous description of the situation, a pigeon among the cats would work just fine, and would be understood as an inversion of the common phrase:
Man, working for those guys was the worst job I ever had. You could
say they really set a pigeon among the cats when they placed me there!
A web search shows that A Pigeon among the Cats has been used as the title of a crime novel and a volume of poetry.
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
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As a (wryly or darkly) humorous description of the situation, a pigeon among the cats would work just fine, and would be understood as an inversion of the common phrase:
Man, working for those guys was the worst job I ever had. You could
say they really set a pigeon among the cats when they placed me there!
A web search shows that A Pigeon among the Cats has been used as the title of a crime novel and a volume of poetry.
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
add a comment
|
As a (wryly or darkly) humorous description of the situation, a pigeon among the cats would work just fine, and would be understood as an inversion of the common phrase:
Man, working for those guys was the worst job I ever had. You could
say they really set a pigeon among the cats when they placed me there!
A web search shows that A Pigeon among the Cats has been used as the title of a crime novel and a volume of poetry.
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
As a (wryly or darkly) humorous description of the situation, a pigeon among the cats would work just fine, and would be understood as an inversion of the common phrase:
Man, working for those guys was the worst job I ever had. You could
say they really set a pigeon among the cats when they placed me there!
A web search shows that A Pigeon among the Cats has been used as the title of a crime novel and a volume of poetry.
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
nekomaticnekomatic
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
5462 silver badges8 bronze badges
add a comment
|
add a comment
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The sharks are circling
If the sharks are circling, then something is in danger and its enemies are getting ready for the kill.
UsingEnglish.com
This fits very well for the situation of having multiple bosses waiting to tear you apart the moment they see an opportunity to strike.
(Unlike vultures circling, which means waiting for something to die / fail on its own so carrion eaters can feast on the corpse. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess property from a company struggling to keep up with payments, and people waiting to rehire any valuable employees. Vultures circling as an idiom has no implication of predators surrounding the thing that's in trouble.)
This doesn't fit the sense of being placed into this situation, though. Throwing someone to the wolves is a better fit for that, as @rajah9's answer points out.
But once in this situation, you might say "The situation at work feels like sharks are circling". (Although that sounds kind of clumsy and isn't the best example of usage. edits welcome with a better example.)
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
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The sharks are circling
If the sharks are circling, then something is in danger and its enemies are getting ready for the kill.
UsingEnglish.com
This fits very well for the situation of having multiple bosses waiting to tear you apart the moment they see an opportunity to strike.
(Unlike vultures circling, which means waiting for something to die / fail on its own so carrion eaters can feast on the corpse. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess property from a company struggling to keep up with payments, and people waiting to rehire any valuable employees. Vultures circling as an idiom has no implication of predators surrounding the thing that's in trouble.)
This doesn't fit the sense of being placed into this situation, though. Throwing someone to the wolves is a better fit for that, as @rajah9's answer points out.
But once in this situation, you might say "The situation at work feels like sharks are circling". (Although that sounds kind of clumsy and isn't the best example of usage. edits welcome with a better example.)
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
add a comment
|
The sharks are circling
If the sharks are circling, then something is in danger and its enemies are getting ready for the kill.
UsingEnglish.com
This fits very well for the situation of having multiple bosses waiting to tear you apart the moment they see an opportunity to strike.
(Unlike vultures circling, which means waiting for something to die / fail on its own so carrion eaters can feast on the corpse. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess property from a company struggling to keep up with payments, and people waiting to rehire any valuable employees. Vultures circling as an idiom has no implication of predators surrounding the thing that's in trouble.)
This doesn't fit the sense of being placed into this situation, though. Throwing someone to the wolves is a better fit for that, as @rajah9's answer points out.
But once in this situation, you might say "The situation at work feels like sharks are circling". (Although that sounds kind of clumsy and isn't the best example of usage. edits welcome with a better example.)
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
The sharks are circling
If the sharks are circling, then something is in danger and its enemies are getting ready for the kill.
UsingEnglish.com
This fits very well for the situation of having multiple bosses waiting to tear you apart the moment they see an opportunity to strike.
(Unlike vultures circling, which means waiting for something to die / fail on its own so carrion eaters can feast on the corpse. e.g. creditors waiting to repossess property from a company struggling to keep up with payments, and people waiting to rehire any valuable employees. Vultures circling as an idiom has no implication of predators surrounding the thing that's in trouble.)
This doesn't fit the sense of being placed into this situation, though. Throwing someone to the wolves is a better fit for that, as @rajah9's answer points out.
But once in this situation, you might say "The situation at work feels like sharks are circling". (Although that sounds kind of clumsy and isn't the best example of usage. edits welcome with a better example.)
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
answered 2 days ago
Peter CordesPeter Cordes
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
5474 silver badges11 bronze badges
add a comment
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sitting duck - a person or thing with no protection against an attack or other source of danger.
– tblue
Oct 13 at 19:18
1
Please see this helpful distinction between "Fish in a barrel" and "sitting ducks." english.stackexchange.com/a/103347/3306
– rajah9
Oct 13 at 20:06
3
The duck is unaware until someone fires the first shot. Then, not so much.
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:42
1
To be in the crosshairs - "be the object of intense observation or scrutiny, usually as a result of some wrongdoing or unpopular opinion, etc., or to be in a position to be attacked or criticized." - "singled out for blame, harassment, or other unwanted attention"
– tblue
Oct 14 at 0:43
1
The answer is simply "throw to the lions" or "... wolves"
– Fattie
Oct 14 at 20:48