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Dig One's Own Grave

What Does "Dig One's Own Grave" Mean?

homeidiomsDig One's Own Grave
"Dig one's own grave" is an English idiom. It means "to create problems for oneself or to bring about one's own downfall."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "dig one's own grave" used in a sentence:
  • If he continues with such decisions, he's digging his own grave.
  • By betraying her trust, he dug his own grave.
  • Taking bribes was like digging their own graves.
meaning for dig one's own grave

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Dig One's Own Grave" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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