out from under

Idioms  

1. Free from difficulties, especially from a burden of debts or work. For example, They've been using credit cards for everything and don't know how they'll get out from under, or We have loads of mail to answer, but we'll soon get out from under. This idiom uses under in the sense of “in a position of subjection.” [Mid-1800s]

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Example Sentences

Jeffres said it’s difficult to see the rug pulled out from under the Winnemem Wintu Tribe once again.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

Discovery out from under Netflix, which had an agreed deal in place since early December to acquire that company’s streaming and studio operations.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

While the method still needs further optimization, Ting said, "We may be able to determine whether someone has increased brain activity simply by assessing muscle activity after pulling a rug out from under you."

From Science Daily • Mar. 25, 2026

Indonesian rescuers have called off the search for victims of a landslide at the country's largest open landfill after pulling seven bodies out from under debris, an official said Tuesday.

From Barron's • Mar. 10, 2026

Finally, he laughed out loud, pushed hard with his arm, leaned, and rolled out from under the chair.

From "All About Sam" by Lois Lowry