come to someone’s rescue: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘come to someone's rescue’ mean?

The idiom "come to someone's rescue" means to save or help someone in a difficult or dangerous situation.

Idiom Explorer

Rescuing in Times of Need

The idiom "come to someone's rescue" is a common expression in English, used to describe the act of helping or saving someone in a time of need or danger. This phrase implies a sense of urgency and the willingness to assist another person in a difficult situation. It is often associated with acts of heroism or a display of bravery. When someone comes to another person's rescue, it often involves taking proactive measures to alleviate their distress or provide necessary help.

This idiom entails the idea of immediate assistance and valor but also acknowledges the potential for unexpected circumstances and the need for assistance beyond what may be initially anticipated. It reinforces the belief in the fundamental principle of helping one another and promoting a sense of collective responsibility. By coming to someone's rescue, individuals demonstrate empathy, compassion, and the willingness to help others in dire situations.

The idiom "come to someone's rescue" can be traced back to English literature from the early 19th century. It was used in various written works to depict instances of individuals coming to each other's aid. Its usage has since become widely accepted and recognized, firmly establishing its position as a well-known idiom in the English language.

When someone comes in handy, it means they are useful or valuable in a situation. This phrase can also be related to the idiom "come to someone's rescue" because when someone provides aid or support to someone in a time of need, they come in handy. They offer their assistance and become valuable in resolving the predicament at hand.

Come to their rescue and save them from danger.

Similarly, the idiom "come to someone's aid" is closely related to "come to someone's rescue". Both idioms convey the act of helping or saving someone in a time of need. They imply an active involvement in resolving the predicament and demonstrate a willingness to assist. The use of the word "aid" suggests a broader range of support or assistance that can be provided to a person in distress.

Support and a helping hand are essential elements when someone is in need of rescue. The idiom "come to someone's rescue" encompasses these concepts. Offering a helping hand means extending support and assistance to someone, which aligns with the intention of rescuing someone from harm or a difficult situation. It emphasizes the importance of unity and support within a community.

By coming to someone's rescue, individuals provide aid, support, and a helping hand. They step up in times of need, exemplifying the virtue of empathy and highlighting the depth of human connection. The idiom serves as a reminder of the capacity for heroic acts when faced with adversity and underscores the ever-present potential for unforeseen difficulties.

Ultimately, the idiom "come to someone's rescue" encapsulates the idea of immediate assistance, compassion, and the willingness to help others. It conveys the importance of empathy and unity within a community. It also acknowledges the unpredictable nature of life and the need for support beyond what may be initially anticipated. This idiom reinforces the belief in the fundamental principle of helping one another and highlights the role of individuals in supporting their communities.

The idiom "come to someone's rescue" refers to the act of helping or saving someone in a time of need or danger. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and the willingness to help others. This idiom is closely related to the idioms "come to someone's aid," "come in handy," and "a helping hand." Together, these idioms highlight the value of support, assistance, and unity within a community. They remind us of the depth of human connection and the potential for heroic acts when faced with adversity.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *come to someone's rescue* can be used in a sentence:

  • When I was stranded at the airport, my brother came to my rescue and gave me a ride home.
  • The firefighters came to the little girl's rescue just in time, saving her from the burning building.
  • She was struggling with her homework, but her teacher came to her rescue and explained the difficult concepts.

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