Meaning of the word "the tail wagging the dog" in English
What does "the tail wagging the dog" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
the tail wagging the dog
US /ðə teɪl ˈwæɡɪŋ ðə dɔɡ/
UK /ðə teɪl ˈwæɡɪŋ ðə dɔɡ/
Idiom
1.
a situation in which a small or less important part of something controls or dominates the whole thing
Example:
•
Allowing a minor issue to dictate the entire project budget is a classic case of the tail wagging the dog.
•
In this company, it often feels like the tail is wagging the dog, with junior staff making decisions for senior management.
Learn This Word at Lingoland