Cut off your nose to spite your face Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To hurt yourself in an attempt to harm someone else, often out of anger or stubbornness, even though your own situation gets worse.
Usage & Nuances
Used in both formal and informal contexts, often to warn someone against making a decision out of anger or pride that ultimately harms themselves. No direct synonyms; similar to 'shoot yourself in the foot,' but slightly more dramatic.
Example Sentences
If you quit your job just to prove a point, you could cut off your nose to spite your face.
basic
She refused help even though it meant more work—she didn't want to cut off her nose to spite her face.
basic
Don't cut off your nose to spite your face by ignoring your friends because you're upset.
basic
By refusing to apologize, he's just cutting off his nose to spite his face—no one else cares.
natural
Sometimes people cut off their nose to spite their face when they're angry, without thinking of the consequences.
natural
You're only cutting off your nose to spite your face by refusing to talk to your boss about your concerns.
natural