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Region: General | Usage example: They swept the issue under the rug hoping no one would notice.

Sweep under the rug

Meaning

Ignore or conceal problems instead of addressing them.

Usage

Used to criticize avoidance or denial.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Metaphor from hiding dirt under rugs instead of cleaning.

Used in social commentary to highlight negligence.

Related Idioms

Sweep it under the rug

Ignore a problem and pretend it is gone.

Water under the bridge

Past events that are forgiven or no longer important.

Under your belt

Gained experience or completed.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.