ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sharp elbows

idiom
Meaning

A willingness to sacrifice others to advance one's own ambitions.


Examples
SIMPLE

She uses sharp elbows to get the best office.

CONTEXTUAL

He has sharp elbows and will do anything to get that promotion.

COMPLEX

In the competitive world of corporate law, those with sharp elbows often rise to the top while others are left behind.

Anchors to
Related idioms3entries
  1. 01

    rub elbows

    To associate closely; to consort, mingle, or socialize.

  2. 02

    sharp cookie

    One who is intelligent, bright, or sharp; especially, one who can identify attempts to deceive or mislead.

  3. 03

    sharp tongue

    The practice or characteristic of speaking to others in a harsh, critical, or insulting manner.

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