What does “Wrong foot” mean?
"To start off on the wrong foot" means to begin something in a way that is not successful or favorable.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I accidentally spilled coffee on my boss's desk on my first day of work, so I definitely started off on the wrong foot.
Example
The team lost their first game of the season, which put them on the wrong foot right from the start.
Example
I forgot to study for the test, so I knew I was starting off on the wrong foot
Is “Wrong foot” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Wrong foot” 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 “Wrong foot” effectively in context?
You can use "Wrong Foot" to describe a situation where someone starts something in an unsuccessful or unfavorable way. It emphasizes a negative start and implies that it may be difficult to recover from that initial setback. For example, if a friend tells you they made a mistake on their first day of a new job, you might say, 'Oh no, you started off on the wrong foot.'
- 1Work
I accidentally spilled coffee on my boss's desk on my first day of work, so I definitely started off on the wrong foot.
- 2Sports
The team lost their first game of the season, which put them on the wrong foot right from the start.
- 3School
I forgot to study for the test, so I knew I was starting off on the wrong foot.
Similar phrases to “Wrong foot”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Wrong foot” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Wrong Foot" is unknown.
Is “Wrong foot” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Wrong Foot" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where things begin unfavorably or go downhill from the start.
What tone does “Wrong foot” have?
"Wrong Foot" conveys a tone of disappointment or concern. It suggests that the initial setback may have a lasting impact on the overall outcome.
Can “Wrong foot” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Wrong Foot" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a negative start to a situation. 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 started off on the wrong foot by arriving late to the interview.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Oops, wrong foot!' to acknowledge a mistake.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- start on the wrong foot
- begin on a bad note
- have a rough start
- get off to a bad start
- start off on a negative note
Antonyms
- start off on the right foot
- begin successfully
- get off to a good start
- start on a positive note
