What does “Cold feet” mean?
"Cold feet" means to suddenly become too afraid or nervous to do something that was planned.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He had cold feet and backed out of the skydiving trip.
Example
She got cold feet and canceled her wedding at the last minute.
Example
I was going to ask her out, but I got cold feet and didn't go through with it
Is “Cold feet” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Cold feet” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Cold feet” effectively in context?
You can use "Cold Feet" to describe a situation where someone becomes too afraid or nervous to go through with something they had planned. It emphasizes the sudden change in emotions and the resulting hesitation or backing out. For example, if a friend was planning to give a speech but then became too nervous and decided not to, you could say, 'He got cold feet and backed out at the last minute.'
- 1Commitment
She was ready to get married, but she got cold feet and called off the wedding.
- 2Taking Risks
He wanted to start his own business, but he got cold feet and decided to stick with his current job.
- 3Social Situations
He was going to ask her out, but he got cold feet and didn't go through with it.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Cold feet” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Cold Feet" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, possibly from the idea that when someone is nervous or afraid, their feet become cold and clammy.
Is “Cold feet” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Cold Feet" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone becomes too afraid or nervous to follow through with their plans.
What tone does “Cold feet” have?
"Cold Feet" conveys a tone of hesitation and fear. It suggests that the person experiencing cold feet is suddenly overcome with anxiety or doubt, leading them to back out or hesitate.
Can “Cold feet” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Cold Feet" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common human experience. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She was excited about the trip, but she got cold feet and decided not to go.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I think I'm getting "cold feet".' to imply hesitation or nervousness.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- get nervous
- lose courage
- have doubts
- feel apprehensive
- chicken out
Antonyms
- go through with it
- follow through
- stay committed
- be fearless
- embrace the challenge
