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Thin End of the Wedge

What Does "Thin End of the Wedge" Mean?

homeidiomsThin End of the Wedge
"Thin end of the wedge" is an English idiom often used to describe a small or seemingly insignificant start that can lead to more significant and negative consequences.

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "thin end of the wedge" used in a sentence:
  • Allowing this minor policy change is the thin end of the wedge that may lead to more restrictive measures.
  • They argued that this decision was the thin end of the wedge in eroding individual rights.
  • Sometimes, what appears to be the thin end of the wedge can open the door to major changes.
meaning for thin end of the wedge

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 "Thin End of the Wedge" 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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