What does “Sweep Under the Carpet” mean?
"Sweep Under the Carpet" means to hide or ignore a problem or issue instead of dealing with it.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The company tried to sweep under the carpet the allegations of misconduct.
Example
Politicians often try to sweep under the carpet controversial topics.
Example
It's not healthy to sweep under the carpet your feelings and emotions
Is “Sweep Under the Carpet” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Sweep Under the Carpet” 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 “Sweep Under the Carpet” effectively in context?
You can use "Sweep Under the Carpet" to describe the act of hiding or ignoring a problem or issue instead of addressing it directly. It implies that someone is trying to avoid dealing with a difficult situation by pretending it doesn't exist. For example, if a company is accused of misconduct, you might say, 'They're trying to sweep it under the carpet and hope no one notices.'
- 1Workplace
The company tried to sweep under the carpet the allegations of misconduct.
- 2Politics
Politicians often try to sweep under the carpet controversial topics.
- 3Emotional Health
It's not healthy to sweep under the carpet your feelings and emotions.
Similar phrases to “Sweep Under the Carpet”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Sweep Under the Carpet” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Sweep Under the Carpet" is unknown.
Is “Sweep Under the Carpet” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Sweep Under the Carpet" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to criticize others for avoiding or ignoring problems instead of facing them head-on.
What tone does “Sweep Under the Carpet” have?
"Sweep Under the Carpet" conveys a tone of disapproval or criticism. It suggests that someone is being dishonest or evasive by not addressing a problem directly.
Can “Sweep Under the Carpet” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Sweep Under the Carpet" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that highlights the importance of addressing issues honestly and directly. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions, presentations, or written reports.
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, 'They tried to sweep the allegations under the carpet.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't sweep it under the carpet!' to emphasize the need to address a problem.
