a kick in the shins

1. A thoroughly devastating or disappointing setback or failure. Losing the championship match was a real kick in the shins, but I knew I just had to train even harder and try again next year. Having to move back in with my parents at age 40 is a kick in the shins all right. Yep, my car broke down yesterday, and then today, I got fired. Talk about a kick in the shins.

2. A harsh punishment (or remedy) for acting foolishly or malevolently. Usually used prescriptively (i.e., "(someone) needs a kick in the shins"). Tim needs a kick in the shins for passing up such a fantastic job opportunity. Whoever has been spreading rumors about Cathy deserves a kick in the shins! That fool deserves a kick in the shins for dumping you!