Meaning
Bite the dust — To fail, be defeated, or die. Informally it can refer to anything that stops working or comes to an end.
Origin & History
The phrase appears in the Bible (Psalm 72:9). It was popularised in Western novels and films where characters would 'bite the dust' when shot. It gained worldwide recognition through the Queen song 'Another One Bites the Dust' (1980).
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| Another startup has bitten the dust in the current economy. | Business failure |
| My old laptop finally bit the dust after seven years. | Device failure |
| The project bit the dust when funding was cut. | Project cancellation |
How to Use It
Informal. More dramatic or humorous than simply saying 'fail'. Common in casual conversation and journalism.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
The plan bitten the dust.
The plan bit the dust. — Past tense is 'bit', not 'bitten' (without auxiliary).
He bite the dust yesterday.
He bit the dust yesterday. — Past simple requires 'bit'.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Practice English Idioms
Use these exercises to master idioms in context:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Bite the dust" mean?
"Bite the dust" means fail or die. To fail, be defeated, or die. Informally it can refer to anything that stops working or comes to an end.
Where does the idiom "Bite the dust" come from?
The phrase appears in the Bible (Psalm 72:9). It was popularised in Western novels and films where characters would 'bite the dust' when shot. It gained worldwide recognition through the Queen song 'Another One Bites the Dust' (1980).
Can you give an example of "Bite the dust" in a sentence?
Here is an example: "Another startup has bitten the dust in the current economy." — used when business failure.
Is "Bite the dust" formal or informal?
Informal. More dramatic or humorous than simply saying 'fail'. Common in casual conversation and journalism.
What CEFR level is "Bite the dust"?
This idiom is typically taught at B2 level. It is a upper-intermediate expression that appears in a wide range of spoken and written English contexts.
What are common mistakes with "Bite the dust"?
The most common mistake is getting the articles wrong. Always use the fixed form of the idiom without changing the words. For example: The plan bit the dust. — Past tense is 'bit', not 'bitten' (without auxiliary).
What idioms are similar to "Bite the dust"?
Similar idioms include: Fail / collapse, Go under, Kick the bucket. These share the same general meaning but may differ slightly in tone or context.
How do I practise idioms like "Bite the dust"?
LexFizz's Flip Tiles and Flash Cards exercises are great for practising English idioms. Try to write your own example sentences using the idiom in context, and listen for it in films, podcasts, and conversations.
Can "Bite the dust" be used in writing?
Yes, but it depends on the register. Informal. More dramatic or humorous than simply saying 'fail'. Common in casual conversation and journalism. Idioms generally work best in spoken English or informal writing; avoid them in formal academic or professional documents unless you are sure of your audience.
Does "Bite the dust" have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, "Bite the dust" is understood in both British and American English with the same meaning: fail or die. Some idioms vary between dialects, but this one is widely recognised in all major varieties of English.