English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Dog in the manger
Meaning
The idiom "dog in the manger" refers to a person or thing that takes advantage of or exploits others. It originates from the story of a dog that steals food from a manger (a trough for feeding animals), leaving nothing for the actual owner of the food.
Usage
- The CEO was criticized for taking credit for his team's success and being a "dog in the manger."
- The politician was accused of using their power to enrich themselves at the expense of their constituents, behaving like a "dog in the manger."
- The employee who took the credit for the project but did not contribute much was described as a "dog in the manger."
- The team leader who failed to share the credit with their team members was compared to a "dog in the manger."
- The CEO's decision to shut down the division that was making a profit, leaving many employees out of work, was seen as selfish and like a "dog in the manger."
Roots and History
The idiom has been used since at least the 16th century and is believed to have originated from the story of the dog who stole food from the manger. The phrase became popular during the 19th century when it was used to describe politicians who took credit for their country's achievements while neglecting the needs of their citizens. Over time, the idiom has expanded to refer to anyone who takes advantage of others in any situation.
Synonyms in English
- Selfish
- Greedy
- Arrogant
- Haughty
- Disloyal
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "égoïste" (selfish)
- German: "selbstsüchtig" (greedy)
- Italian: "arrogante" (arrogant)
- Spanish: "orgulloso/a" (haughty)
- Portuguese: "egoísta" (disloyal)