# hurt a fly

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/hurt-a-fly
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To hurt or damage something even a little.

## Examples

- He is so gentle that he would not hurt a fly.
- Do not worry about the new dog, he is very friendly and would not hurt a fly.
- Despite his intimidating appearance and reputation, those who knew him well insisted that he would not hurt a fly.

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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.