Sweep under the rug

Meaning

The idiom "sweep under the rug" means to cover up, hide, or suppress something that is unwanted or embarrassing. It suggests that the matter is being ignored or dismissed by someone with power or authority.

Usage

• The company tried to sweep the scandal under the rug, but it eventually came to light.
• When her boss found out about her mistake, she quickly swept it under the rug and gave her another chance.
• The government has been accused of sweeping the corruption issue under the rug.
• Some people believe that mental illness is still being swept under the rug by society.
• The victim's cries for help were swept under the rug by the police, leading to a lack of justice.

Roots and History

The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 19th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of sweeping dirt or debris under the rug to hide it from view. Another theory suggests that it comes from the Victorian era when women were often silenced or discouraged from speaking out about their experiences.

Synonyms in English

• Sweep under the table
• Bury in the ground
• Cover up with dirt
• Hide behind someone's back
• Keep under wraps

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: enterrar de nuevo bajo la tierra
• French: cacher sous la tasse à sujet
• German: vergraben unter dem Tisch
• Italian: nascondere sotto il tavolo
• Arabic: اختفاء الملك منه

Similar Idioms

• sense of humour

• stand in a good stead

• smitten with