Find an idiom like like a beaten dog? - briefly
"Like a whipped cur."
Find an idiom like like a beaten dog? - in detail
To find an idiom similar to "like a beaten dog," we must first understand the underlying meaning of this expression. "Like a beaten dog" is used to describe someone who appears submissive, defeated, or humiliated, often due to repeated mistreatment or setbacks.
One such idiom that captures a similar sentiment is "bent out of shape." This phrase suggests that someone has been so severely affected by negative experiences that they are no longer in their usual, confident state. They appear distorted or broken, much like a beaten dog would. For example, "He's been bent out of shape since his business failed last year."
Another relevant idiom is "licking one's wounds." This expression refers to someone who has suffered a loss or humiliation and is now in a state of retreat or recovery, much like a beaten dog would. For instance, "After the harsh criticism from her boss, she went home to lick her wounds."
"Down but not out" is another idiom that conveys a sense of being beaten down but still resilient. This phrase suggests that although someone has faced setbacks or defeats, they are not entirely defeated and may still recover. For example, "Despite his recent failures, he's down but not out yet."
Each of these idioms captures the essence of feeling subdued or defeated, much like the original expression "like a beaten dog."