The Village Idiom

pull the ladder up behind oneself

The idiom "pull the ladder up behind oneself" means to remove or deny opportunities or assistance for others once one has succeeded or achieved a certain position or goal.

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In a sentence

  • After getting promoted to a higher position, the manager pulled the ladder up behind herself by refusing to mentor or support junior employees.
  • Once she had achieved her dream of becoming a successful actress, she pulled the ladder up behind herself and stopped helping aspiring actors or sharing her industry contacts.
  • Instead of assisting his colleagues in improving their skills, the consultant pulled the ladder up behind himself by hoarding all the knowledge and resources he possessed.

Where it comes from and how it is used

Pull the ladder up after oneself is another idiom that carries a similar meaning to "pull the ladder up behind oneself". It refers to the act of removing a means of advancement or support once one has achieved success or reached a certain level. This can be seen as a selfish or self-centered action, as it limits the opportunities for others to follow in one's footsteps. Just like pulling the ladder up behind oneself, pulling the ladder up after oneself signifies a lack of consideration for others and a focus on personal advancement.

Pull oneself up by one's bootstraps is a related idiom that contrasts with the concepts of pulling the ladder up behind oneself or after oneself. This idiom suggests that an individual can achieve success or improve their circumstances through their own efforts and determination, without relying on external support or opportunities. While pulling the ladder up behind oneself implies the removal of support for others, pulling oneself up by one's bootstraps emphasizes personal agency and self-reliance. This idiom is often used to describe someone who has overcome obstacles and achieved success through their own hard work.

The phrase "on the ladder" is a related idiom that signifies being in a position of advancement or progress. It refers to someone who is on a path to success or has achieved a certain level of accomplishment. When someone pulls the ladder up behind themselves, it can prevent others from also being "on the ladder" and making progress towards their own goals. This idiom highlights the impact of denying opportunities or support to others, as it can hinder their ability to climb the metaphorical ladder of success.

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