When you call someone a “snake in the grass,” it means that they are deceitful, treacherous, or untrustworthy, often pretending to be kind or harmless while secretly plotting harm or betrayal.
The phrase highlights the idea of hidden danger or dishonesty, where the person’s true intentions are concealed until the moment they act against you.
For example: if someone pretends to be your friend but spreads lies about you behind your back, they would be considered a snake in the grass.
Sentence Examples
- “I trusted him completely, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass, betraying me when I least expected it.”
- “Watch out for her; she might seem friendly, but I’ve heard she’s a real snake in the grass when it comes to competition.”
- “The politician presented himself as a man of the people, but his actions proved he was nothing more than a snake in the grass.”
- “It’s hard to spot a snake in the grass until they’ve already done the damage.”
- “That business partner seemed reliable, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass, stealing money from the company.”
Origin
The origin of the phrase can be traced back to classical literature, specifically to the Roman poet Virgil, who used a similar metaphor in his work Eclogues around 37 BCE. In this context, he wrote “latet anguis in herba,” which translates to “a snake hides in the grass,” warning of hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface.
The phrase made its first appearance in English literature in 1696 when it was used as the title of a book by Charles Leslie, titled The Snake in the Grass: or, Satan transform’d into an angel of light. This book critiqued certain religious groups, particularly the Quakers, and highlighted the idea of hidden treachery.
Snake in the Grass Synonyms
Here are some synonyms or similar phrases to “snake in the grass”:
- Wolf in sheep’s clothing – Someone who appears harmless but is actually dangerous or deceitful.
- Backstabber – A person who betrays someone unexpectedly or treacherously.
- Double-crosser – Someone who betrays trust or loyalty.
- Deceiver – A person who misleads or hides their true intentions.
- Two-faced person – Someone who pretends to be friendly but is deceitful behind your back.
- Hidden enemy – Someone who secretly works against you.
- Traitor – A person who betrays trust or allegiance.
- Underhanded person – Someone who behaves dishonestly or deceitfully.
- False friend – Someone who pretends to be a friend but is actually disloyal.
- Lurking danger – A concealed threat or risk, often used metaphorically.
Snake in the Grass Quotes
One of the most common way to use a phrase like this is as a quote or caption on a social media post. If that’s your goal, here are some creative ideas to inspire you—whether you’re going for a motivational, humorous, relatable, or seasonal vibe.
Motivational:
- “Life will always have a snake in the grass—stay alert, stay strong, and don’t let deceit trip you up.”
- “True strength lies in spotting the snake in the grass before it bites—trust your instincts.”
- “Every betrayal teaches a lesson. Even the snake in the grass helps you grow stronger.”
Funny:
- “When Karen brought her famous pie to the office potluck, I knew there was a snake in the grass somewhere.
- “Group chats are all fun and games until you realize there’s a snake in the grass spilling your tea.
- “Trust is like stepping on a lawn—just hope there’s no snake in the grass lurking to ruin your day!
Relatable:
- “Ever had a friend who smiles to your face but gossips behind your back? That’s a classic snake in the grass moment.”
- “Some people are all sunshine until you turn your back—watch out for the snake in the grass.”
- “Nothing’s worse than realizing the person you trusted most was the snake in the grass all along.”
Seasonal:
- “As the snow covers the ground, remember: even in winter, there can be a snake in the grass. Stay vigilant.
- “The holidays are here, but don’t let the glitter blind you—there’s always a snake in the grass at family gatherings.
- “Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home—time to clear out any snakes in the grass from your life.