pull the rug from under


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pull the rug (out) from under (someone)

To suddenly or unexpectedly remove or rescind support, help, or assistance from someone; to abruptly leave someone in a problematic or difficult situation. I felt like someone had pulled the rug out from under me when my health insurance said it was going to stop paying for my medical bills. I'd love to quit my job, but I just can't pull the rug from under my team like that.
See also: pull, rug

pull the rug (out) from under

Informal
To remove all support and assistance from, usually suddenly.
See also: pull, rug
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He said: "I wanted to pull the rug from under people.
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IT'S typical of Everton to build up your hopes one week, only to then pull the rug from under you the next.
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