become nervous or hesitant about something you had planned to do · lose courage
Imagine you've planned a huge adventure, like skydiving! But then, right before you jump, you suddenly feel a wave of intense fear and hesitation. That's getting cold feet! 🥶 It perfectly describes that last-minute doubt or nervousness that makes you want to back out of something you previously committed to. It’s often used for big life decisions too, like marriage or a new job.
💡 **Why 'cold feet'?** Some say it comes from soldiers whose feet would get cold before battle, making them want to run away. Another theory suggests it's from a poker player who lost courage and literally had 'cold feet' from being under the table too long! 😂 Remember, it's not about being literally cold, but feeling nervous or hesitant. You can also use it for less dramatic situations, like 'I almost asked them out, but I got cold feet at the last minute.'
When would you most appropriately use the expression 'get cold feet'? A. When you successfully complete a very difficult task. B. When you decide to cancel your wedding right before the ceremony because you're scared. C. When you accidentally put your shoes on the wrong feet.