The political party started to eat its own during the election.
eat one's own
idiomTo turn on and attack members of one's own group or clique.
Origin
disputed originShort for eat one's own kind or similar, as certain living organisms do.
When the company faced financial trouble, the managers began to eat their own to protect their own positions.
In a desperate struggle for control, the revolutionary council turned inward to eat its own, destroying the very alliances that had brought them to power.
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
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ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
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air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated July 12, 2026