Sweep under the carpet Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To hide a problem or mistake instead of dealing with it, hoping no one will notice.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal and slightly critical idiom. Often used when talking about organizations or people avoiding uncomfortable truths. Common collocation: 'try to sweep it under the carpet.' Similar to 'cover up,' but more visual. Not used for physical cleaning.
Example Sentences
You can't just sweep the problem under the carpet and hope it disappears.
basic
They tried to sweep the mistake under the carpet, but people found out.
basic
We shouldn't sweep it under the carpet; let's talk about it honestly.
basic
Management always tries to sweep bad news under the carpet instead of fixing the real issues.
natural
If you just sweep your feelings under the carpet, they'll come back stronger later.
natural
Let's not sweep this under the carpet again. We need to deal with it once and for all.
natural