What does “Waiting in the wings” mean?
"Waiting in the wings" means being prepared or ready to take action or assume a role.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The backup dancers were waiting in the wings for their cue to go on stage.
Example
The new CEO is waiting in the wings to take over the company.
Example
The understudy is always waiting in the wings in case the lead actor is unable to perform
Is “Waiting in the wings” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Waiting in the wings” 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 “Waiting in the wings” effectively in context?
You can use "Waiting in the Wings" to describe someone who is prepared and ready to take action or assume a role. It often implies that the person is waiting for an opportunity or their turn to come. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:
- 1Performing Arts
The backup dancers were waiting in the wings for their cue to go on stage.
- 2Business
The new CEO is waiting in the wings to take over the company.
- 3Theater
The understudy is always waiting in the wings in case the lead actor is unable to perform.
Similar phrases to “Waiting in the wings”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Waiting in the wings” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Waiting in the Wings" is derived from the theater. In a theater production, the wings are the areas on either side of the stage where actors wait for their cue to go on stage. Actors who are waiting in the wings are prepared and ready to take action or assume a role when needed.
Is “Waiting in the wings” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Waiting in the Wings" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is prepared and ready to take action or assume a role.
What tone does “Waiting in the wings” have?
"Waiting in the Wings" conveys a tone of anticipation and readiness. It suggests that someone is eagerly waiting for their opportunity to come and is prepared to take action when the time is right.
Can “Waiting in the wings” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Waiting in the Wings" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as performing arts, business, or theater. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, colleagues, or in more formal situations like presentations or meetings.
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, 'She was "waiting in the wings" for her chance to shine.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm "waiting in the wings"!' to imply readiness for an opportunity.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- ready and prepared
- on the sidelines
- prepared to step in
- in the background
- poised for action
Antonyms
- unprepared
- out of the loop
- offstage
- caught off guard
- not in the picture
