# throw to the wolves

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/throw-to-the-wolves
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To sacrifice someone, especially in an attempt to save oneself.

## Examples

- He threw his friend to the wolves to save his own job.
- When the project failed, the manager threw his assistant to the wolves to avoid taking the blame himself.
- The politician chose to throw his most loyal advisor to the wolves, hoping the public would focus their anger elsewhere.

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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.