Lower your sights: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Lower your sights” mean?

"Lower your sights" means to have more realistic or achievable goals.

What context can I use the in?

Example

You need to lower your sights and set more attainable targets.

Example

Instead of aiming for the top, it's better to lower your sights and focus on steady progress.

Example

It's important to lower your sights and be practical when it comes to setting expectations

Is “Lower your sights” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Lower your sights” 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 “Lower your sights” effectively in context?

You can use "Lower your sights" to advise someone to set more realistic or achievable goals. It emphasizes the need to be practical and not aim too high. For example, if a friend is constantly setting unrealistic expectations for themselves, you might say, 'You need to lower your sights and set more attainable targets.'

• 1. Academic

  Instead of aiming for straight A's, it's better to lower your sights and focus on consistent improvement.

• 2. Career

  It's important to lower your sights and be practical when it comes to setting expectations for job promotions.

• 3. Personal Development

  To avoid burnout, it's crucial to lower your sights and prioritize self-care over constant productivity.

Similar phrases to “Lower your sights”:

Set the bar lower

To lower one's expectations or standards

Example

Instead of aiming for perfection, it's better to set the bar lower and focus on consistent improvement.

Be more realistic

To have goals or expectations that are practical and achievable

Example

Instead of dreaming big, it's important to be more realistic and set attainable targets.

Adjust your expectations

To modify one's hopes or desires to align with what is likely or possible

Example

To avoid disappointment, it's necessary to adjust your expectations and be more practical.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Lower your sights” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Lower your sights" is unknown.

Is “Lower your sights” common in everyday conversation?

"Lower your sights" is not as common as some other expressions, but it is still used in everyday conversation. People often use it to advise others to be more realistic and practical in their goals and expectations.

What tone does “Lower your sights” have?

"Lower your sights" conveys a tone of practicality and realism. It suggests the need to adjust one's aspirations to a more achievable level.

Can “Lower your sights” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Lower your sights" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of setting realistic goals. You can use it in 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 is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Instead of aiming too high, it's better to lower your sights and focus on steady progress.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "lower your sights"!' to imply the need for more realistic goals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• set more attainable goals
• be more practical
• adjust your ambitions
• temper your expectations
• scale back your aspirations

Antonyms

• aim high
• reach for the stars
• set ambitious goals
• have lofty expectations
• shoot for the moon