don’t bite the hand that feeds you
Meaning
Don’t harm, insult, or undermine someone who supports you or provides you with benefits.
Origin
From the literal idea of an animal biting the person feeding it—an act of ingratitude and self-sabotage. The figurative use has been common in English since at least the 1800s.
Notes
Used as a warning or reproach about ingratitude or self-sabotage toward a benefactor (boss, sponsor, ally). It can sound blunt or moralizing.
Examples
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If your boss is giving you a chance, don’t bite the hand that feeds you by publicly criticizing her.
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He trashed the sponsor online, forgetting the rule: don’t bite the hand that feeds you.
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I know you’re angry, but don’t bite the hand that feeds you—you still need their support.
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She complained nonstop about the scholarship committee; I warned her not to bite the hand that feeds her.
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Before you call them out, remember: don’t bite the hand that feeds you when they’ve helped you for years.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually in the imperative: “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” The verb can be inflected in reported speech (“He bit the hand that fed him”), and pronouns may vary (“that feeds me/you/him”).
Synonyms
- don’t turn on your benefactor
- don’t betray the people who support you
- don’t shoot yourself in the foot
Antonyms
- be grateful
- show appreciation
- return the favor