fall from a horse; be defeated; be caught (corruption)
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesverb
to fall from a horse
neutralLiteral meaning. Can refer to an accidental fall during riding.
He accidentally fell from his horse while riding and injured his arm.
In ancient times, cavalrymen found it difficult to fight again after falling from their horses.
verb
to be defeated; to lose (in a competition); to be eliminated
neutralUsed metaphorically for sports matches, elections, or competitions.
After the previous champion and runner-up were both eliminated, new faces appeared in the final.
The favorite team was unexpectedly defeated in the quarter-finals.
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This politician lost in the primary election.
verb
to be brought down; to be caught (of officials for corruption); to fall from power
neutralModern, common usage in news about anti-corruption campaigns against officials. Often has a negative connotation.
Several senior officials were brought down for corruption last year.
The mayor was caught in an anti-corruption investigation.