English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Worm in the apple
Meaning
The idiom "worm in the apple" refers to someone who ruins or spoils something by introducing a harmful or unpleasant element into it. It can also refer to someone who betrays or misleads others.
Usage
- The new employee turned out to be a worm in the apple, causing chaos and dysfunction in the office.
- I trusted my friend completely until I found out he was a worm in the apple, lying to me about his past.
- Despite her initially charming demeanor, it soon became clear that she was a worm in the apple, manipulating others for her own gain.
- The once-happy family was torn apart by a worm in the apple, who caused conflict and tension between the members.
- The singer's performance was ruined by a worm in the apple, who sabotaged her equipment and caused her to lose her voice.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 17th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of using worms to bore holes into apples to ripen them more quickly. Another theory suggests that it refers to a person who causes trouble or corruption, as if they were a pest infesting an apple. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent, but its usage has evolved to reflect changing cultural and social norms. For example, in earlier times, the idiom may have been used more frequently to refer to someone who introduced physical harm or damage, while today it is more commonly used to describe someone who causes psychological harm or betrayal.
Synonyms in English
- Snake in the grass
- Poison ivy
- Time bomb
- Trojan horse
- Pandora's box
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "Souris dans l'orange" (mouse in an orange)
- German: "Schwärmerin im Obst" (enthusiast in fruit)
- Italian: "Pesce spada nel pozzo" (swordfish in the well)
- Spanish: "Morcilla en la manzana" (blood sausage in the apple)
- Mandarin Chinese: "虫子入果子" (insect enters fruit)