tread on someone's toes

tread on (someone's) toes

To insult, offend, or upset someone, especially by involving oneself in that which is someone else's responsibility. I want to help Johnny out on his project, but I know he's very proud, and I don't want to tread on his toes in any way. Look, you're going to have to tread on a few peoples' toes if you want to get ahead in this business.
See also: on, toe, tread
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

tread (or step) on someone's toes

offend someone, especially by encroaching on their privileges.
See also: on, toe, tread
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • (one) puts (one's) pants on one leg at a time
  • accompany (one) on a/(one's) journey
  • accompany on a journey
  • a stranger to (someone or something)
  • be out of (one's) league
  • be out of somebody's league
  • be in bad with (someone)
  • be one in the eye for
  • bargain
  • bargain for (someone or something) with (someone)
References in periodicals archive
If I have to go and tread on someone's toes to get a girl that I like or if I had to upset somebody, then I'd see that more as a sign that it's not meant to be."
Dan: Isle nicest be the
If I have to tread on someone's toes to get a girl, I'd see that as a sign it's not meant to be."
Isle be nice, not naughty, says Dan
You may have to tread on someone's toes to do it though.
Your Stars with Claire Petulengero
To find out more 0901 6093141 TAURUS (April 21/May 21): Think carefully before issuing invitations for the weekend you may tread on someone's toes. Check how free certain folk are.
Claire Petulengro