What does “Hairy at the heel” mean?
"Hairy at the heel" means someone or something that has a bad reputation or is considered untrustworthy.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I wouldn't trust him, he's hairy at the heel.
Example
That company has a hairy at the heel reputation in the industry.
Example
Be careful, he's known for being hairy at the heel
Is “Hairy at the heel” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Hairy at the heel” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Hairy at the heel” effectively in context?
You can use "Hairy at the Heel" to describe someone or something that has a bad reputation or is untrustworthy. It implies that there is something suspicious or questionable about the person or thing. For example, if someone warns you about a dishonest business partner, you might say, 'I wouldn't trust him, he's hairy at the heel.'
- 1Personal Relationships
After hearing rumors about his friend's behavior, he started to see him as hairy at the heel.
- 2Business
That company has a hairy at the heel reputation in the industry, so it's best to avoid working with them.
- 3Cautionary Advice
Be careful, he's known for being hairy at the heel, so don't trust him blindly.
Similar phrases to “Hairy at the heel”:
Suspicious or untrustworthy
Example
I don't feel comfortable with this deal, it seems sketchy.
Dishonest or untrustworthy
Example
I've heard some shady things about that company, so I'm staying away.
Seeming suspicious or questionable
Example
There's something fishy about his story, I don't believe him.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Hairy at the heel” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Hairy at the Heel" is unknown.
Is “Hairy at the heel” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Hairy at the Heel" is not very common in everyday conversation. It may be more commonly used in certain regions or among specific groups of people.
What tone does “Hairy at the heel” have?
"Hairy at the Heel" conveys a tone of caution and suspicion. It suggests that there is something dubious or untrustworthy about the person or thing being described.
Can “Hairy at the heel” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Hairy at the Heel" is informal and may not be suitable for formal settings. It is more commonly used in casual conversations among friends or acquaintances.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I wouldn't trust him, he's hairy at the heel.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's hairy at the heel!' to imply that someone is untrustworthy.
