Emphasizes the emotional impact of being let down during difficult times. He supported her throughout, so her leaving was a kick in the teeth.
Pro Tip 2/3
Support Withdrawn
Suggests a sudden lack of support when it was most expected or needed. The cancelation of funding felt like a kick in the teeth to the researchers.
Pro Tip 3/3
Casual Expression
Commonly used in informal situations among friends or in personal anecdotes. It was a kick in the teeth to find out they went to the concert without me.