Dog-eat-dog

Describing a situation or environment characterized by fierce competition, ruthlessness, and a lack of concern for others, where individuals or groups are willing to do anything, including acting unfairly or unscrupulously, to achieve their own goals or survival. The phrase evokes a sense of brutal self-interest and relentless struggle for dominance, often in fields like business, politics, or any domain where resources are limited and ambition is high. The metaphor implies that individuals must be aggressive and predatory to succeed, facing constant threats from others and potentially sacrificing ethical considerations for personal gain.

Dog-eat-dog meaning with examples

• The cutthroat world of finance is often described as dog-eat-dog. Ambitious traders, driven by profit, constantly strive to outmaneuver their competitors, leading to high-pressure environments and a disregard for the well-being of those around them. Success is measured by financial gains, and those who fail to adapt and compete fiercely risk losing their jobs and prestige.
• In the start-up industry, the business world can be dog-eat-dog, with many companies vying for market share. Entrepreneurs are forced to innovate quickly, secure funding, and aggressively market their products to survive. This competitive landscape often creates an environment where partnerships are short-lived, and acquisitions become a frequent tactic.
• The political arena is undeniably dog-eat-dog; backstabbing, public manipulation and character assassinations are all part of the games politicians often play. Candidates constantly try to undermine their rivals, exploiting weaknesses and using any means necessary to win elections, and often using their supporters to do so.
• Journalism can quickly turn into a dog-eat-dog landscape, and some journalists become relentless in pursuing leads, even if it involves aggressive tactics or a lack of respect for privacy. The pressure to break stories first and generate clicks drives reporters to compete fiercely, potentially leading to compromised ethics and biased reporting.