# step on a rake

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/step-on-a-rake
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To fall victim to an avoidable (usually self-caused) hazard or error.

## Examples

- He keeps stepping on a rake by trusting that dishonest man.
- If you ignore the warning signs again, you are just stepping on a rake.
- Despite his extensive experience, he stepped on a rake by repeating the same strategic blunder that had ruined his previous project.

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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.