lift a rock only to drop it on one's own foot; be hoist by one's own petard
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesidiom
to be hoist by one's own petard; to suffer the consequences of one's own actions
neutralUsed to describe a situation where someone's scheme or harmful action backfires, causing harm to themselves instead. It is a vivid metaphor and is commonly used in both spoken and written language.
He tried to frame his colleague, but the plot was exposed and he got fired himself. He really lifted a rock only to drop it on his own foot.
The country started a trade war, which ultimately severely damaged its own economy. It was truly a case of being hoist by its own petard.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
He spread rumors and slandered people online, and ended up being doxxed and ruined. This is a classic example of lifting a rock only to drop it on his own foot.
The scammer designed a perfect trap, but unexpectedly became the biggest victim in the end. It's exactly what they say: 'be hoist by your own petard.'