Put your foot in it: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Put your foot in it” mean?

"Put your foot in it" means to say or do something that unintentionally offends or upsets someone.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I really put my foot in it when I made that insensitive comment.

Example

He always seems to put his foot in it with his inappropriate jokes.

Example

I didn't mean to put my foot in it, but I accidentally brought up a sensitive topic

Is “Put your foot in it” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Put your foot in 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 your foot in it” effectively in context?

You can use "Put your foot in it" to describe a situation where someone says or does something that unintentionally offends or upsets someone. It emphasizes the idea of making a mistake or a blunder in social interactions. For example, if a friend accidentally brings up a sensitive topic during a conversation, you might say, 'Oops, you really put your foot in it there.'

• 1. Social Gatherings

  At the party, he put his foot in it by asking about their recent breakup.

• 2. Workplace

  During the meeting, she put her foot in it by criticizing her colleague's idea without realizing it was his.

• 3. Family Gatherings

  During dinner, he put his foot in it by making an inappropriate joke about a sensitive family matter.

Similar phrases to “Put your foot in it”:

Stick one's foot in one's mouth

To say something embarrassing, foolish, or offensive

Example

He stuck his foot in his mouth when he made that inappropriate comment.

Make a blunder

To make a careless or embarrassing mistake

Example

She made a blunder by forgetting her lines during the play.

Step on someone's toes

To unintentionally offend or upset someone by interfering in their affairs

Example

He stepped on his boss's toes by taking credit for someone else's work.

Open mouth, insert foot

To say something that is embarrassing, inappropriate, or offensive

Example

She opened her mouth and inserted her foot by making that insensitive remark.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Put your foot in it” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Put your foot in it" is unknown.

Is “Put your foot in it” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Put your foot in it" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone unintentionally says or does something offensive or upsetting.

What tone does “Put your foot in it” have?

"Put your foot in it" conveys a tone of regret or embarrassment. It's often used to acknowledge a mistake and express sympathy or understanding towards the person who made the blunder.

Can “Put your foot in it” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Put your foot in it" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common social faux pas. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as professional meetings or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I really put my foot in it when I made that insensitive comment.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Oops, "put my foot in it"!' to acknowledge a blunder.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• put your foot in your mouth
• say something offensive
• make a social blunder
• make a gaffe
• commit a social faux pas

Antonyms

• choose words carefully
• speak tactfully
• avoid offending
• be considerate
• mind your manners