foul one's nest
foul one's (own) nest
To do something that creates problems for oneself. I wouldn't talk to the boss while you're angry—you'll just end up fouling your own nest.
See also: foul, nest
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
foul one's nest
Also, foul one's own nest. Hurt one's own interests, as in With his constant complaints about his wife, he's only fouling his own nest. This metaphoric expression transfers a bird's soiling of its nest to human behavior. [Mid-1200s]
See also: foul, nest
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
- foul one's (own) nest
- kick (oneself) for (doing something)
- wash (one's) hands of (someone or something)
- wash hands of
- wash one's hands of
- wash your hands of
- wash your hands of somebody/something
- wash your hands of something/someone
- keep (someone or something) in sight
- keep sight of (someone or something)