ENGLISH
REFERENCE

dig up dirt

idiom

To examine in order to find negative information for public opinion, usually with the purpose of embarrassing or discrediting a person.


Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    dig a hole for oneself

    To take an action or create a situation from which it is difficult to extricate.

  2. 02

    dig deep

    To make a lot of effort with all one's resources.

  3. 03

    dig in

    To adopt a resolute state of mind.

  4. 04

    dig in one's heels

    To act in a determined manner by firmly maintaining one's beliefs, demands, situation, etc. in the face of opposition.

  5. 05

    dig one's heels in

    to refuse to change one's plans or ideas, especially when counseled otherwise

  6. 06

    dig one's own grave

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

  7. 07

    dig oneself in a hole

    To put oneself in even more trouble.

  8. 08

    dig out of a hole

    To save someone or something from trouble.

© 2026 English Reference