土つちをつける

expression, ichidan verb

defeat; beat; hand a loss

Sumo-derived idiom meaning to inflict a defeat on someone, especially in a competitive context. Literally 'to put dirt on someone', referring to a wrestler being thrown to the ground.

See also: 土がつく

• 横よこ綱づなが初はじめて土つちをつけられた。

  The yokozuna was handed his first loss.

• 彼かれはライバルに土つちをつけることができなかった。

  He couldn't beat his rival.