on one’s last legs: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘on one's last legs’ mean?
The idiom "on one's last legs" means being in a very weak or near-failing state, usually referring to a person, animal, or thing that is exhausted or deteriorating.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "run out" means to exhaust the supply of something or to reach the end of a limited resource. It implies that there is no more of that specific thing available.
Run out is an idiom that means to exhaust or deplete the supply of something. It is commonly used to describe a situation where there is no more of a particular item or resource left.
The idiom "run on fumes" means to continue doing something or functioning even though one has little energy, resources, or fuel left.
The idiom "run into the ground" means to exhaust or use up completely, often through overuse or mismanagement.
The idiom "over the hill" refers to reaching a point in life where someone is considered old or past their prime, often used to describe someone who is no longer young or able to do things as well as they used to.
One of the most well-known idioms in the English language is "over the hill." This phrase is used to describe someone who is past their prime or no longer young and in their prime.
The idiom "out on one's feet" means to be extremely tired or exhausted, to the point of not being able to continue or function properly.
The idiom "on the wane" means that something is declining or decreasing in strength, popularity, or influence. It describes a gradual and noticeable decline in a particular situation or condition.
The idiom "on the skids" refers to a situation or person that is in decline or deteriorating. It can describe something or someone facing a loss of reputation, success, or stability.
The idiom "on the skids" is commonly used in the English language to indicate a decline or deterioration in someone's or something's circumstances. It suggests a downward spiral towards failure or ruin.
The idiom "on the shelf" means something or someone that is no longer being used, supported, or considered. It is often used to describe a person or thing that has been abandoned or neglected, and is no longer active or relevant.
Fading Vitality
"on one's deathbed" is another idiomatic expression that relates to the idea of being on one's last legs. This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely ill and is believed to be approaching death. It signifies that the individual is in a critical condition, with little hope for recovery. Similar to "on one's last legs," this idiom implies that the person is on the verge of reaching the end of their life.
"on the skids" is yet another idiom that can be connected to the concept of being on one's last legs. This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is in a state of decline or failure, particularly in terms of financial or social standing. It suggests that the subject is experiencing a downward spiral and is heading towards a critical or disastrous state. Much like "on one's last legs," this idiom conveys the idea of imminent collapse or complete breakdown.
When we say that someone or something is "on one's last legs," we are emphasizing the precariousness of their situation. Whether it is a car, a person's health, or a system on the verge of failure, this idiom illustrates the fragility and impending doom that they face. It captures the sense of vulnerability and transience that is inherent in life and objects.
While the exact origins of these idioms may be unknown, their usage and significance are well-established in the English language. They have been passed down through generations, and their meaning has remained consistent over time.
Both "on one's deathbed" and "on the skids" convey a similar sense of decline and impending demise. They can be used interchangeably with "on one's last legs" in certain contexts, further emphasizing the precarious and fragile state of someone or something.
Imagine a scenario where an old wooden rollercoaster at an amusement park is on its last legs. The structure is weakening, parts are falling off, and it can barely make it through a ride without breaking down. This rollercoaster is metaphorically on its deathbed, teetering on the brink of collapse.
Now, picture a struggling business that is failing due to a series of poor decisions and financial misfortune. The company's reputation is tarnished, customers have stopped buying their products, and bankruptcy seems inevitable. This business is on the skids, spiraling towards complete failure.
Similar to these examples, when a person is on their deathbed, they are in the final stages of a terminal illness or old age, with little hope for recovery. Their life is waning, and their time is running out. Likewise, when someone or something is on the skids, they are experiencing a rapid decline, often in terms of financial stability or social status. They are heading towards a state of irreparable damage or ruin.
These idioms provide additional perspectives on the concept of being on one's last legs. They highlight different aspects of decline, whether it be physical, financial, or social. By incorporating these idioms into our vocabulary, we can add depth and nuance to our understanding of the delicate and precarious nature of life and objects.
The idiomatic expression "on one's last legs" encompasses the idea of something or someone being in a state of decline or near the end of its existence. It can be related to other idioms such as "on one's deathbed" and "on the skids," which further emphasize the fragility and impending doom associated with being on one's last legs. These idioms provide different perspectives on decline, whether it is in terms of physical health, social standing, or financial stability. Through their usage, we can better convey the precariousness of life and objects, reminding us of the transient nature of our existence.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "on one's last legs" can be used in a sentence:
- After running a marathon, I was on my last legs and could barely walk.
- The old car is on its last legs and keeps breaking down.
- The company is struggling financially and is on its last legs.
The idiom "on one's last legs" is commonly used to describe someone or something that is in a state of exhaustion, extreme weakness, or near failure. It suggests that the person or thing is at the end of their physical endurance, usefulness, or viability.
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