"Put one's tail between legs" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation where someone feels defeated or ashamed of themselves. While this phrase can be useful in some contexts, there are several synonyms to express this sentiment as well. You can say "tuck one's tail between legs," "shrink in defeat," "withdraw in humiliation," "retreat in shame," or "bow one's head in defeat" to convey similar meanings. These alternatives can be useful when you want to avoid repeating the same phrase or want to express yourself in a more nuanced way. Overall, having a broad vocabulary of synonyms can help you communicate more effectively and efficiently.