# dig one's own grave

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/dig-ones-own-grave
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To behave in a way that is likely to cause one to lose or fail, including, but not limited to, result in death.

## Examples

- If you lie to your boss, you are digging your own grave.
- By ignoring all the safety warnings at work, he is really digging his own grave.
- The politician knew that by insulting his most loyal supporters, he was effectively digging his own grave before the upcoming election.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.