under the bus 

To cast a person in an unfavorable light with others; to take action or make statements intended to put another person at a disadvantage.

Origin: A Boston radio station manager coined the term circa 1987-88 when canceling a radio network's services on his music-oriented FM station, stating that he was going to put the network "under the bus." The term was picked up by staff members to describe conduct in which one person would try to gain an advantage in company politics by speaking ill of, or doing something to reflect disfavorably on, another. In this context, it generally meant something that was a combination of sneaky, subtle and vicious. The phrase crept into on-air talk. In time, the radio station's owner acquired a sports-oriented station whose employees picked up the phrase and eventually began using it on highly-rated programs.

Joe really threw Sally under the bus in the meeting today. She wasn't there and he said the company would have won the Simpson account if Sally hadn't gotten drunk at the lunch meeting.

under the bus by Worthy Worthington July 30, 2008

under the bus 

to put the heat on somebody or to put them in a tough position.

Why did you have to tell the boss what I was saying about his wife, you really threw me under the bus.

under the bus by h4z3d September 5, 2005

Under the bus 

Something to be kept secret; Kept in the closet

"Did you know those two are dating?"

"Yes, but they said to keep it under the bus."

Under the bus by Amanorsomething October 4, 2024

throw under the bus 

to sacrifice some other person, usually one who is undeserving or at least vulnerable, to make personal gain.

He'd throw his mother under the bus if it'd mean he could beat the rap.

throw under the bus by Jeffrey December 17, 2004

thrown under the bus 

1. To intentionally reveal damaging or unflattering information about another's character or transpired event, while at the same time trying to make themselves look good or innocent in the eyes of the listener. To shift blame or attention in a cowardly way.

The varsity quarteback was thrown under the bus by a sophomore when the coach was told who toilet papered his house.

thrown under the bus by speedork August 18, 2006

throw under the bus 

One is thrown under the bus when they are made the scapegoat or blamed for something that wasn't their responsibility in the first place. A coverup for your mistake.

Ruby Red, I didn't have time to do the business report, so I threw you under the bus and told the boss it was your job instead.

throw under the bus by Shell April 5, 2005

Thrown under the bus 

Phrase made popular by a small town graphic designer in northern Michigan after watching two battling chipmonks attempt to hurl one another under a fast moving shortbus. Denotes an individual's willingness to sacrifice another's future and recognition for one's own gain. Blatant disregard for another's well-being. Betrayal.

Anakin through her co-worker under the bus.
Net was thrown under the bus.

Thrown under the bus by Fozzie P June 15, 2006