snake in the grass
Noun: A deceitful or treacherous person; someone who pretends to be a friend but is secretly an enemy or is working against you. This term describes a person who hides their true, harmful intentions.
This term is used to label a person who is perceived as secretly disloyal or dangerous. It is a strong, critical, and often emotional label. It functions as a compound noun and is typically used in a predicate position (e.g., "He is a...") or as a direct address in an accusation.
- She trusted him completely, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass, sharing her confidential ideas with her competitors.
- Be careful who you confide in; there's always a snake in the grass in every organization.
- "You snake in the grass!" she shouted, after discovering his betrayal.
The phrase is inherently idiomatic and metaphorical. Its power comes from the vivid image of a hidden snake, which can strike unexpectedly. It implies not just general deceit, but a specific betrayal of trust from someone within a social or professional circle.
- Snake (noun, informal): A treacherous or deceitful person. (A shorter, more casual form of "snake in the grass").
- Don't trust him; he's a snake.
- Traitor (noun): A person who betrays a country, cause, or person.
- Backstabber (noun, informal): A person who pretends to be a friend but secretly acts harmfully.
- Traitor
- Betrayer
- Backstabber
- Double-crosser
- Judas
- Two-faced person
- A wolf in sheep's clothing: Someone who hides malicious intent behind a harmless or friendly appearance. (This is a very close synonym in meaning and metaphorical style).
- To stab someone in the back: To betray someone treacherously. (This describes the , while "snake in the grass" describes the ).
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a deceitful or treacherous person
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