The Village Idiom

don't let the door hit you on the way out

"Don't let the door hit you on the way out" means to leave quickly and without causing any inconvenience or problems for others. It is often said in a dismissive or sarcastic manner when someone is not wanted or is being asked to leave a place or situation.

Filed under D

In a sentence

  • After learning about his unethical behavior, the company fired John and said, "Don't let the door hit you on the way out!
  • When the rude customer caused a scene in the restaurant, the manager told him to leave and added, "Don't let the door hit you on the way out!
  • After Joe broke up with his girlfriend, she angrily slammed the door and yelled, "Don't let the door hit you on the way out!

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom *don't let the door hit you on the way out* is commonly used in American English. It's a phrase that is often said when someone wants another person to leave quickly and without causing any trouble. This can be seen as a form of dismissal or rejection, where the speaker is effectively telling the person to leave and not to let the door hit them on the way out.

The origins of this idiom are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early to mid-20th century, possibly in the United States. It is a phrase that is often used in a colloquial, informal context, such as in social situations or casual conversations.

The figurative meaning of this idiom is that the person being dismissed is not worth the trouble or hassle of even letting the door hit them on the way out. It implies that the person's departure is insignificant and unimportant.

Now, let's take a look at some related idioms that convey a similar message of dismissal or rejection.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.