χώνω το μαχαίρι στην πλάτη

Translations

• to stab someone in the back
• to betray someone

Literal Translation

to stick the knife in the back

Forms

Usage Notes

This phrase can be used both literally and figuratively. In modern usage, it's almost always used figuratively to describe betrayal.

Etymology

This phrase derives from the literal act of stabbing someone in the back, which has become metaphorical for betrayal in many cultures.

Cultural Context

Used to describe an act of betrayal, especially from someone trusted. In this text, it refers to the literal and metaphorical betrayal of Agamemnon by his wife and Aegisthus.

• Think of the similar English expression 'stab in the back'
• Visualize the act of betrayal as a knife in the back when you can't see it coming