At someone's heels definitions
| Word backwards | ta s'enoemos sleeh |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | This phrase is a prepositional phrase, with "at" being a preposition. |
| Syllabic division | at some-one's heels |
| Plural | The plural of "at someone's heels" would be "at someone's heels." |
| Total letters | 15 |
| Vogais (3) | a,o,e |
| Consonants (6) | t,s,m,n,h,l |
When someone is at someone's heels, it means they are closely following or chasing after them. This expression is often used figuratively to describe someone who is pursuing another person closely, either physically or metaphorically.
Origin of the Phrase
The phrase "at someone's heels" has its origins in the image of a hunter or predatory animal chasing its prey. It conveys a sense of pursuit and proximity, suggesting that the person being followed is in imminent danger or under pressure.
Interpretation
In a figurative sense, being "at someone's heels" can suggest that someone is determined or relentless in their pursuit of a goal, ambition, or opportunity. It can also imply a sense of competition or rivalry, with one person trying to outdo or surpass another.
Usage
This expression is commonly used in contexts where one person is trying to keep up with or surpass another person in a race, competition, or challenge. It can also be used to describe someone who is constantly following or watching another person's every move.
Overall, being at someone's heels signifies a state of close proximity and intense pursuit, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense. It captures the idea of someone being just a step behind, ready to seize an opportunity or take advantage of a moment's weakness.
At someone's heels Examples
- The detective was always at the criminal's heels, never giving up the chase.
- Her success in business seemed to always have competitors at her heels.
- The dog followed its owner closely, always at his heels.
- The paparazzi were constantly at the celebrity's heels, trying to get the latest scoop.
- The deadline for the project was looming, with time constantly at their heels.
- She felt the pressure of expectations constantly at her heels, pushing her to do better.
- The shadowy figure seemed to always be at the investigator's heels, watching their every move.
- The feeling of failure was always at his heels, threatening to overtake his confidence.
- The thought of his past mistakes lingered at his heels, haunting his every decision.
- The feeling of regret followed her like a shadow, constantly at her heels.