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gräva sin egen grav

Meaning: To cause one's own ruin or downfall through foolish actions.

Language: Swedish

Literally: to dig one's own grave

Category: Nature

Origin: The image is literal—digging a grave for oneself—metaphorically applied to self-destructive behavior.

More idioms — Nature

  • på hal is — In a precarious or dangerous situation that one cannot control or easily escape.
  • mitt på ljusan dag — In broad daylight; openly and obviously, not in secret.
  • trzęsienie ziemi — A sudden, violent upheaval or catastrophic disruption in society, politics, or personal c…
  • zapadać się pod ziemię — To wish to disappear from shame or mortification.
  • studnia bez dna — An endless source of trouble or expense; something that consumes resources without limit…
  • światełko w tunelu — A sign of hope or improvement after a long period of hardship or darkness.

More Swedish idioms

  • inte göra en fluga förnär — To be harmless and gentle, incapable of hurting even the smallest creature.
  • styv i korken — Overly self-confident and arrogant, carrying oneself with unwarranted swagger.
  • gå sitt öde till mötes — To face one's destiny, often implying a dramatic or fatal confrontation with what is fate…
  • som vatten på en gås — Something that has no effect or makes no impression, sliding off harmlessly.
  • lysa med lånta fjädrar — To present oneself falsely by adopting the qualities, accomplishments, or possessions of…
  • så till den milda grad — To such an extent; to a remarkable or extreme degree, often used ironically.

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