# put someone in a box

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/put-someone-in-a-box
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To judge someone unfairly as a member of a category of person, based on very few factors.

## Examples

- Do not put me in a box just because of my job.
- People often put him in a box because of his quiet personality, ignoring his creative talents.
- Society tends to put individuals in a box based on their background, failing to recognize the complexity and nuance of their true character.

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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.