[show] {sb} the door
1
to dismiss or fire someone from their job or position
The origin of the idiom "show someone the door" is unclear, but it has been in use in English since at least the mid-19th century. It is thought to refer to the act of physically showing someone the way out of a building or room when they are being dismissed. This idiomatic expression is used to describe a situation where someone is fired or dismissed from their job.
- He was shown the door last week after he was caught sleeping on the job.
- He's been caught stealing from the company, and they're going to show him the door.
- She's been warned about her poor attendance, and if she doesn't improve, they'll show her the door.
2
to accompany a guest, visitor, etc. to the exit of a room or building
The origin of the idiom "show someone the door" refers to physically accompanying a guest, visitor, or individual to the exit of a room or building. It is a polite way of indicating that someone is no longer welcome or that their presence is no longer desired. This phrase is often used when someone is being asked to leave a place, either due to the end of an event or for other reasons.
- Thank you so much for coming in for the interview.John, would you please show Mr. Porter the door?
- As the party was coming to an end, the host offered to show the guests the door.
- When the meeting concluded, the chairman thanked everyone for their attendance and suggested it was time to show the attendees the door.
3
to angrily ask someone to leave a place
The idiom "show someone the door" originates from the literal act of physically escorting or indicating to someone that they should leave a place. Figuratively, it means to make it clear to someone that they are no longer welcome or wanted, usually due to their behavior, actions, or attitudes. The phrase conveys the idea of dismissing or removing someone from a situation or environment in a direct and unambiguous manner.
- After his disrespectful comments, the manager showed the employee the door, making it clear that his behavior was unacceptable.
- The party host had enough of the disruptive guests and decided to show them the door, putting an end to their unruly behavior.
- When the investor realized the entrepreneur's dishonesty, he wasted no time in showing him the door, terminating their business partnership.
- The restaurant manager encountered a rude customer and promptly showed him the door, refusing to tolerate any mistreatment of the staff.
- The professor warned the disruptive student multiple times, but when their behavior continued, she finally showed them the door, removing them from the classroom.