kick in the teeth
Harsh unexpected setback
A kick in the teeth is a sudden, demoralizing setback or humiliating rejection—something that strikes when you're already vulnerable or hopeful: Losing the promotion after all that work was a real kick in the teeth.
The image suggests being knocked down while exposed, adding insult to injury.
- slap in the faceHumiliating rebuke or rejection
- slap downForcefully reject or silence
- rude awakeningStartling unpleasant realization
- bitter pillDifficult thing to accept
- rebuffAbrupt, curt rejection
snub · put down · insult · betrayal · setback · knock back · loss · hard knock · dishonor · injustice · disillusionment · heartbreak · harm · humiliation · stab in the back · gut punch · blow · rejection
kick in the teethshot in the arm
Revitalizing boost or injection
encouragement · pat on the back · boost · lift · pick-me-up
kick in the teethpat on the back
Gesture showing approval
vote of confidence · helping hand · warm embrace · praise · compliment
kick in the teethkindness
Considerate, caring disposition
generosity · act of kindness · warm welcome · helping hand · gesture of goodwill