🚶♂️ Putting Your Best Foot Forward: Walking in Style Through Clichés 👠
To try to make the best possible impression. There is something inherently puzzling about this expression, which dates from the sixteenth century. What exactly is one’s “best foot,” and why should it signify putting on a good show? Shakespeare made it the better foot (in Titus Andronicus and King John), and Sir Thomas Overbury wrote, in 1613 (Characters: A footeman), “His legs are not matches, for he is still setting the best foot forward.” One writer suggests that “best foot” always meant “right foot,” the left being considered unlucky. Whatever the explanation, the metaphor is still current.
Similar Terms, Idioms, and Expressions
- Going the extra mile: Doing more than what is required.
- First impressions last: The importance of making a good initial impact.
- Polish the apple: To flatter or seek favor.
- Bring your A-game: To perform at the highest level.
Synonyms
- Shine: Give a good performance or fine impression.
- Excel: Perform exceptionally well.
- Impress: Create a favorable or powerful impact.
Antonyms
- Blunder: To make a mistake that makes one look bad.
- Underwhelm: Fail to impress.
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, put your best foot forward… but watch out for banana peels!”
- “Dressing for success means putting your best foot forward in a perfectly shined shoe—either that, or have lightning-fast reflexes when the boss calls.”
Related Proverbs and References
- Proverbial Playground Clues: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—but make sure it’s your best foot forward.”
- “The left hand may not know what the right hand is doing, but hopefully, they agree on which foot to put forward!”
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Literature: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen – First impressions and societal expectations make a wild footprint.
- Songs: “Walk of Life” by Dire Straits – A musical blend of putting your best foot forward and classic cool.
- Poetry: If by Rudyard Kipling – Inspirational lines about making the best impression in adversities.
- Movies: The Pursuit of Happyness – The triumph of always putting your best foot forward despite the odds.
Quizzes
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Thank you for joining this exploration through the art of impression-making clichés. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but the effort and mindset that count. Keep stepping forward—best foot or not—and make your journey a memorable one!
—W. T. Wittywords, October 2023
