What does “Put some dirt on it” mean?
"Put some dirt on it" means to cover up or hide a mistake or problem.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He tried to put some dirt on it by blaming someone else.
Example
The company tried to put some dirt on it by downplaying the issue.
Example
Instead of addressing the problem, they decided to put some dirt on it and hope no one noticed
Is “Put some dirt on it” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Put some dirt on it” 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 “Put some dirt on it” effectively in context?
You can use "Put some dirt on it" to describe the act of covering up or hiding a mistake or problem. It implies an attempt to downplay or ignore the issue rather than addressing it directly. For example, if someone tries to shift the blame onto someone else to avoid taking responsibility, you might say, 'He tried to "put some dirt on it" by blaming someone else.'
- 1Workplace
The company faced a major PR crisis, but instead of addressing it, they decided to put some dirt on it and downplay the issue.
- 2Relationships
Instead of having an honest conversation about their problems, they chose to put some dirt on it and pretend everything was fine.
- 3Personal Mistakes
Rather than admitting his mistake, he tried to put some dirt on it and hope no one noticed.
Similar phrases to “Put some dirt on it”:
To conceal or gloss over a mistake or problem
Example
They attempted to whitewash the situation and make it seem less serious.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Put some dirt on it” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Put some dirt on it" is unknown.
Is “Put some dirt on it” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Put some dirt on it" is not as common as other expressions, but it can still be used in everyday conversation. It is often used in informal settings to describe situations where someone tries to cover up or hide a mistake or problem.
What tone does “Put some dirt on it” have?
"Put some dirt on it" conveys a tone of deception or dishonesty. It suggests an attempt to avoid taking responsibility or facing the consequences of one's actions.
Can “Put some dirt on it” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Put some dirt on it" is more commonly used in informal settings. It may not be appropriate for formal or professional situations. It is best suited for casual conversations among friends, family, or colleagues.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "Put some dirt on it" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They tried to put some dirt on it and pretend everything was fine.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Just put some dirt on it!' to imply the act of covering up or hiding a mistake or problem.
