What does “On your toes” mean?
"On your toes" means being alert and ready for action.
What context can I use the in?
Example
During the game, the players need to be on their toes to react quickly.
Example
In a dangerous situation, it's important to stay on your toes and be prepared for anything.
Example
The detective was always on his toes, ready to solve the next case
Is “On your toes” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On your toes” 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 “On your toes” effectively in context?
You can use "On your toes" to describe being alert and ready for action. It emphasizes the need to be attentive and prepared in various situations. For example, if you're playing a fast-paced game, you might say, 'During the game, the players need to be "on their toes" to react quickly.'
- 1Sports
In a basketball match, it's important to stay on your toes to defend against the opponent's moves.
- 2Safety
In a dangerous situation, it's crucial to stay on your toes and be prepared for any potential threats.
- 3Work
The project was challenging, but the team stayed on their toes and adapted to unexpected changes.
Similar phrases to “On your toes”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On your toes” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On your toes" is unknown.
Is “On your toes” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "On your toes" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe the need to be alert and ready for action in different situations.
What tone does “On your toes” have?
"On your toes" conveys a tone of vigilance and preparedness. It suggests the importance of being attentive and proactive.
Can “On your toes” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "On your toes" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes the state of being alert and ready for action. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or presentations.
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, 'During the game, the players need to be "on their toes" and react quickly.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stay "on your toes"!' to remind someone to be alert.
