The exact origin is uncertain. The image builds on British political expressions about someone going or falling under a bus. Merriam-Webster records related political uses from 1980 and 1982, before the modern wording became widely used in politics and journalism.
What does throw under the bus mean?
To throw someone under the bus is to betray, blame, or sacrifice them to protect yourself or gain an advantage.
Is throw under the bus informal?
Yes. Throw under the bus is informal and often expresses strong disapproval of disloyal behavior.
Does throw under the bus involve a real bus?
Usually not. The expression uses a violent image for leaving someone exposed to blame or harm.
What are the past forms of throw under the bus?
The past form is threw under the bus, and the past participle is thrown under the bus.
What is the difference between throw under the bus and scapegoat?
Both can shift blame unfairly, but throw under the bus especially suggests betraying or sacrificing someone for personal protection or advantage.