You trust someone completely—then they betray you without warning. That’s when the phrase snake in the grass slithers into your mind. This colorful idiom perfectly describes a hidden enemy or a deceitful friend pretending to be loyal. In this post, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, and real-life examples of snake in the grass—plus similar phrases that carry the same sting.
Meaning of “Snake in the Grass”
The idiom “snake in the grass” refers to a person who hides their true intentions and betrays others through deceit or treachery. It’s used for someone who seems kind or harmless but secretly works against you.
Sometimes it also applies to:
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A traitor in a group or organization.
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A fake friend who talks behind your back.
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Anyone who pretends to be trustworthy but isn’t.
👉 In short: A snake in the grass is a secret enemy disguised as a friend.
Origin of “Snake in the Grass”
The phrase has ancient roots—literally! It first appeared in the poems of the Roman writer Virgil around 37 BCE. In his work Eclogues, he used the Latin line “latet anguis in herba,” meaning “a snake hides in the grass.” The image suggests hidden danger waiting to strike when least expected.
The expression slithered into English literature in the 17th century, becoming popular thanks to poets and playwrights. By the 1700s, it had become a common English idiom meaning a deceptive or treacherous person. Even today, it keeps its bite in both British and American English.
Examples in Sentences
Here are some examples showing how snake in the grass can be used in daily conversation or formal writing:
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After the meeting, everyone realized the new manager was a snake in the grass who leaked company secrets.
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I thought he was my friend, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass spreading rumors behind my back.
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Be careful in politics—there’s always a snake in the grass waiting for your mistake.
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Her polite smile fooled many, but those who knew her saw the snake in the grass beneath the charm.
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In the movie, the loyal advisor turned out to be a snake in the grass plotting against the king.
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He acted supportive during the project, but his actions later revealed a true snake in the grass.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
Here are a few idioms with similar meanings to snake in the grass:
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Wolf in sheep’s clothing – Someone who looks harmless or kind but is secretly dangerous or deceitful.
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Two-faced – A person who says one thing to you and another behind your back.
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Backstabber – Someone who betrays a friend or colleague secretly.
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Double-crosser – A person who breaks trust by going against an agreement or alliance.
All of these express betrayal hidden behind friendliness, much like our slippery snake.
PERSONAL INSIGHT
I’ve used snake in the grass many times when teaching idioms to my students. It’s one of those phrases that instantly paints a vivid picture in their minds. I like how it reminds us to be careful with whom we trust—because not all smiles are sincere. The imagery makes the lesson memorable, and learners rarely forget it.
CONCLUSION
The idiom snake in the grass teaches a timeless lesson: beware of hidden deceit behind friendly faces. Its roots reach back to ancient Rome, yet its warning remains just as relevant today. Whether in friendships, workplaces, or politics, this phrase captures the sting of betrayal perfectly.
Do you use snake in the grass in your everyday conversations? Share your examples in the comments below—I’d love to read them!