Dead men's shoes: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Dead men's shoes” mean?

"Dead men's shoes" means that someone can only achieve something if someone else dies or leaves.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's been waiting for a promotion for years, but it's only going to happen in dead men's shoes.

Example

She knows that the only way she can become the CEO is if she fills dead men's shoes.

Example

In this company, it's all about waiting for dead men's shoes to move up the ladder

Is “Dead men's shoes” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Dead men's shoes” 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 “Dead men's shoes” effectively in context?

You can use "Dead men's shoes" to describe a situation where someone can only achieve something if someone else dies or leaves. It emphasizes the idea that there is limited opportunity for advancement or success, and one must wait for an opening to become available. For example, if a colleague has been waiting for a promotion for a long time, you might say, 'He's been waiting for a promotion for years, but it's only going to happen in "dead men's shoes".'

• 1. Career Advancement

  She knows that the only way she can become the CEO is if she fills dead men's shoes.

• 2. Corporate Hierarchy

  In this company, it's all about waiting for dead men's shoes to move up the ladder.

• 3. Succession Planning

  The family business can only be inherited by the next generation when the current owner fills dead men's shoes.

Similar phrases to “Dead men's shoes”:

Wait in line

To wait for one's turn or opportunity

Example

She knows she has to wait in line for a chance at a promotion.

Play second fiddle

To have a subordinate or less important role

Example

He's tired of playing second fiddle and wants to take on a more prominent position.

Inherit the throne

To assume a position of power or authority through succession

Example

The prince will inherit the throne when his father abdicates.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Dead men's shoes” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Dead men's shoes" is unknown.

Is “Dead men's shoes” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Dead men's shoes" is not as common in everyday conversation as some other idioms. It is more likely to be used in specific contexts related to career advancement, corporate hierarchy, or succession planning.

What tone does “Dead men's shoes” have?

"Dead men's shoes" conveys a tone of resignation and recognition of limited opportunities. It suggests a sense of waiting and dependency on external circumstances.

Can “Dead men's shoes” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "dead men's shoes" is relatively informal and may not be commonly used in formal settings. It is more likely to be used in casual conversations or informal writing.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's been waiting for a promotion for years, but it's only going to happen in "dead men's shoes".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Still waiting for "dead men's shoes"!' to express frustration with limited opportunities.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• wait for an opening
• depend on someone else's departure
• rely on vacancies

Antonyms

• create one's own opportunities
• forge one's own path
• take the lead