con el rabo entre las piernas
Meaning: In a state of shame, defeat, or humiliation; cowed and demoralized.
Language: Spanish
Literally: with the tail between the legs
Category: Animals
Origin: Dogs and other animals drop their tails between their hind legs when frightened or submissive; the phrase transfers this animal behavior to express human defeat.
More idioms — Animals
- de caballo — Enormous; of impressive or overwhelming size or intensity.
- perder los estribos — To lose one's temper or composure; to become angry or agitated.
- cazar al vuelo — To seize or take something quickly before someone else can.
- tomar el toro por los cuernos — To face a difficult problem directly and courageously rather than avoiding it.
- lobo con piel de cordero — A person who appears harmless or trustworthy but is actually dangerous or deceitful.
- dar coces contra el aguijón — To resist or rebel futilely against something stronger or inevitable.
More Spanish idioms
- quedarle cuerda — To still have plenty of energy, vitality, or usefulness left.
- de grado o por fuerza — Whether one likes it or not; willingly or unwillingly.
- mandarse a mudar — To leave abruptly or without notice; to depart hastily.
- a pesar de los pesares — Despite all difficulties and hardships; no matter what obstacles arise.
- sin cuartel — Without mercy or restraint; ruthlessly and completely.
- caérsele el alma a los pies — to be deeply disappointed or dismayed.
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